Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo
Creamy, flavorful Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo combines tender shrimp, freshly steamed broccoli, and a luscious Alfredo sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this nutritious and comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights and is loved by the whole family.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free pasta)
Protein and Vegetables
- Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 pound)
- Fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets (2 cups)
Pasta
- Fettuccine or pasta of choice (12 ounces)
Sauce Components
- Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (1 cup)
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
Seasonings and Cooking
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli florets to the boiling water during the last three minutes of cooking to ensure both are perfectly done.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, avoiding browning. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything: Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Fold in cooked shrimp and warm through for one minute before serving hot.
Notes
- Fresh Shrimp Matters: Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Keep broccoli slightly crisp to maintain texture and vibrant color.
- Grate Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enriches the sauce’s creaminess.
- Use Medium Heat: Simmer sauce gently to prevent cream from curdling.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Add a splash if sauce thickens too much for perfect consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg
Keywords: Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo, Creamy Shrimp Pasta, Quick Alfredo Recipe, Healthy Shrimp Dinner, Italian Seafood Pasta