Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo blends the rich, velvety texture of Alfredo sauce with tender shrimp and fresh broccoli. This dish provides both comfort and elegance, making it ideal for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner. The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality food without spending hours in the kitchen.
With creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce coating fettuccine, paired with succulent shrimp and tender broccoli, this dish will please both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Let’s break down how you can create this culinary masterpiece step by step.
Ingredients
- 300g fettuccine (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the pasta and broccoli
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes for an al dente texture. Meanwhile, in the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. This ensures that the broccoli remains bright green and tender-crisp. Finally, drain both the pasta and broccoli, setting them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them generously with salt and pepper. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent the sauce from separating. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Next, whisk in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Afterward, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 4: Combine everything
Once the Alfredo sauce is ready, return the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss them gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Add the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet, folding them into the mixture so that every bite is infused with creamy, savory goodness. At this point, the dish is nearly ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve and garnish
Immediately plate the Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo while it’s still hot. Garnish each serving with freshly ground black pepper for a bit of extra flavor, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten up the presentation. Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal, and enjoy!
Cooking Note
Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking, as they cook very quickly. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a tough and chewy texture, which is less enjoyable. If your Alfredo sauce becomes too thick before serving, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to thin it back out to a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve this creamy Alfredo dish with a slice of warm garlic bread on the side, perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to add freshness and balance to the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Complement the creamy Alfredo with a glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which enhances the flavors without overwhelming the palate.
- Lemon Wedges: For an extra layer of freshness, serve with a wedge of lemon to squeeze over the shrimp just before eating. The acidity balances out the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Tips
- Pasta Choices: While fettuccine is the traditional choice for Alfredo sauce, you can use linguine, spaghetti, or even penne. Long noodles hold the sauce well, while tubular shapes allow it to cling inside.
- Shrimp Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood for a different twist on this dish.
- Cheese Variety: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor, but you can mix in Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.
- Lighten the Dish: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. While the sauce will be less rich, it will still be delicious.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Sodium: ~850 mg
Conclusion
Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is a satisfying, indulgent dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re preparing this for a special dinner or just a cozy weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to please. The combination of tender shrimp, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce over fettuccine is a tried-and-true classic. It’s also versatile enough for you to adjust to your taste, making it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry before sautéing.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! However, Alfredo sauce is best when served fresh. To make ahead, cook the pasta, shrimp, and broccoli separately and store them in the fridge. Reheat gently with the Alfredo sauce just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta and sauce on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Q: Can I make a dairy-free version of this Alfredo?
A: Yes! You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency will be different, but it’s still a delicious option.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!