Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli

Name: Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

When I first made Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli, it was a game-changer in my cooking routine. I was craving something creamy and satisfying, yet nutritious, and this dish perfectly hit that mark. The combination of succulent shrimp with tender broccoli enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce was a delightful surprise. Every bite feels indulgent yet balanced, making it a great weeknight meal or a fancy dinner for guests. I'm excited to share this recipe that has become a family favorite!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:56:43.843Z

Two years ago, I decided to elevate my pasta game by trying shrimp Alfredo with broccoli, and it has been a staple ever since. The creamy sauce complements the shrimp's sweetness, and the vibrant broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. I discovered that using freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a big difference in flavor and creaminess.

Along the way, I learned that timing the addition of broccoli to the pasta ensures it stays bright and crisp while cooking. This balance turns a simple dish into a restaurant-quality experience at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce with a rich depth of flavor
Juicy shrimp perfectly paired with bright broccoli
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner

The Perfect Pasta

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for this Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli. I recommend fettuccine because its flat shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. If you don’t have fettuccine on hand, tagliatelle or even penne can work well, though they provide a slightly different texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to keep the pasta al dente.

When cooking the fettuccine, use a generous amount of salted water to help season the pasta as it cooks. Watch closely when you add the broccoli to ensure it remains vibrant green and tender but firm. Overcooking the broccoli will turn it mushy, diminishing not only its nutritional quality but also its texture and visual appeal in the dish.

Shrimp Sealing in Flavor

The shrimp are the star of the show, so it’s essential to cook them just right. I recommend using medium-sized shrimp for this recipe, as they provide a great balance between texture and flavor. If you find shrimp on sale, feel free to scale up the quantity; just be mindful to maintain even cooking in your pot.

To achieve that perfect shrimp texture, don't overload the pot when sautéing. Cooking them in batches, if necessary, allows them to sear properly. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink hue and curl slightly. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side; keeping an eye on the cooking time will prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now you're ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Shrimp Alfredo:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the pot. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute grilled chicken for shrimp if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli, consider pairing it with a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the Alfredo sauce. A simple arugula salad topped with cherry tomatoes can balance the flavors perfectly, allowing your main dish to shine.

If you're aiming for a more complete meal, serving this pasta with garlic bread can be a delightful addition. The crispy texture of the bread complements the creamy sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prep this dish in advance, you can cook the pasta and broccoli separately and store them in airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, simply heat them in a pan with a bit of olive oil before adding the shrimp and Alfredo sauce. This way, everything stays fresh, and you avoid overcooking the broccoli during reheating.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Keep in mind, though, that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to restore the creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ How can I make it lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk for a lighter option.

→ What if I don't have fettuccine?

You can use any pasta shape you have on hand; penne or linguine works well too.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers are great additions.