When you want a cozy, restaurant-style meal that comes together at home, Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli is the perfect choice. You get tender shrimp, a silky Alfredo sauce, and bright broccoli florets all tossed with pasta for a dish that feels indulgent but still balanced.
Unlike many store-bought Alfredo sauces, this homemade version is fresher, creamier, and fully customizable—so you can control the richness, seasoning, and texture. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or when you want something impressive without a lot of effort.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Pasta & Broccoli
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine (or penne)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, classic Alfredo flavor)
- 1/3 cup pasta water (as needed to thin and emulsify)
Optional garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Lemon zest
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions.
During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot to blanch until tender-crisp.
Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and lemon juice (optional).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes (don’t boil hard).
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Smooth It Out
Reduce heat to low. Stir in Parmesan gradually until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until silky.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce and toss to coat. Add shrimp back in and toss gently for 1 minute to warm through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and your favorite garnish (parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest).
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Pair with steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach if you want more greens.
- For a lighter plate, serve smaller pasta portions with extra broccoli.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 670 |
| Protein | 38 grams |
| Total Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 55 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 720 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp is a lean protein that cooks quickly and adds great flavor.
- Broccoli boosts fiber, vitamin C, and overall balance to a creamy dish.
- Using pasta water helps create a smooth sauce with better texture and less extra cream.
Tips for Perfect Alfredo
- Don’t overcook shrimp—remove as soon as it turns pink.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce (pre-shredded can clump).
- Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent a grainy sauce.
- Reserve pasta water—it’s the secret to a silky, clingy Alfredo.
- Toss pasta in the sauce right away so it absorbs flavor.
Variations to Try
- Lighter Alfredo: Use half-and-half and reduce butter slightly.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach.
- Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled or rotisserie chicken.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and confirm cheese labels as needed.
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli is the perfect mix of indulgent and fresh—silky Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and bright broccoli all in one comforting bowl. It’s quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and easy to customize to your taste.
Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe guarantees a creamy, satisfying bite every time.
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