Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

There are few things more comforting than a creamy pasta dish, and this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo checks all the boxes: it’s rich, flavorful, quick to make, and loaded with wholesome ingredients. Picture tender pasta swirled in a silky Alfredo sauce, with plump shrimp and bright green broccoli florets tucked in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a weeknight dinner, or even a special date night at home, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic Alfredo pasta, but with a lighter, fresher twist thanks to broccoli and shrimp. Instead of a heavy, overly rich sauce, this recipe balances creaminess with brightness, giving you the best of both worlds. The shrimp add a protein boost and a naturally sweet, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlicky, cheesy sauce. Meanwhile, the broccoli sneaks in nutrients and adds a nice contrast in both color and texture.

This is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is actually simple to make in under 40 minutes. With a few pantry staples, a head of broccoli, and a bag of shrimp, you’ll have a dish that’s bound to impress anyone you serve it to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Balanced Flavors: Creamy Alfredo sauce with a touch of garlic, balanced by fresh broccoli.
• Protein-Packed: Shrimp adds a lean, satisfying protein.
• Customizable: Works with your favorite pasta shape and vegetables.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Gourmet taste without a hefty price tag.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to get kids (and adults) to enjoy their veggies.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo (serves 4):

For the Pasta & Veggies

• 8 ounces fusilli pasta (or pasta of choice): Fusilli holds the sauce beautifully, but penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti also work.
• 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets: Fresh is best, but frozen can be used in a pinch.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off: Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work.
• 1 tablespoon butter (from the divided amount): For sautéing shrimp.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Adds herby depth.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Balances the richness.

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter (remaining from divided amount): Base for the roux.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
• 1 cup milk: Whole milk preferred for creaminess.
• 4 ounces cream cheese: Makes the sauce rich and tangy.
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Nutty, salty flavor essential for Alfredo.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta and broccoli)
• Large skillet (for shrimp and sauce)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring sauce)
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Chef’s knife & cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add shrimp, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Thicken with flour: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.
5. Add milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Incorporate cheeses: Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is creamy.
7. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp into the skillet with the sauce. Toss until well coated.
8. Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian option: Omit shrimp and add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
• Vegan adaptation: Use vegan butter, plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free parmesan.
• Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour.
• Spicier version: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
• Lighter swap: Use low-fat cream cheese and skim milk.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is creamy, garlicky, and savory, with tender shrimp and fresh broccoli providing balance. The parmesan adds a nutty saltiness that ties everything together.

Drink pairings:

• Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or iced tea.

Sides:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Side salad with balsamic dressing.
• Roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g

Dietary notes: High protein, includes dairy and gluten.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ahead: Chop broccoli and peel shrimp in advance.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to loosen sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to cream cheese separation.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, add it directly to boiling pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

2. What pasta works best?
Fettuccine, penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?
Yes, it will make the sauce even creamier.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Cook over medium heat and stir continuously when adding dairy.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger skillet.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep ingredients	10 minutes
Cook pasta/broccoli	10 minutes
Cook shrimp	6 minutes
Make sauce	10 minutes
Combine & serve	5 minutes
Total Time	~35–40 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
• Serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
• Plate in shallow bowls to highlight shrimp and broccoli.

Recipe Variations

• Cajun Shrimp Alfredo: Add Cajun seasoning to the shrimp.
• Chicken Alfredo: Swap shrimp with grilled chicken strips.
• Broccoli Alfredo Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp: Look for deveined jumbo shrimp for convenience. If buying frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Shrimp cook quickly—avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

Broccoli: Choose firm, dark green heads. Store in the crisper drawer, loosely wrapped. Steaming or blanching preserves nutrients and vibrant color.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Salt pasta water generously—it seasons the entire dish.
• Don’t overcook shrimp; they only need 2–3 minutes per side.
• Add pasta water to the sauce if it feels too thick.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Add a splash of milk in a skillet over low heat.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to cream cheese and shrimp texture changes.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	34g
Carbs	48g
Fat	20g
Fiber	4g

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy, shellfish, and gluten.

Expanded Conclusion

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, yet balanced with fresh broccoli and tender shrimp. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, but also elegant enough for a special dinner at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that the whole family will love.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to garnish generously with parmesan before serving. Share it with friends, enjoy leftovers for lunch, and keep it in your weekly rotation. This dish is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something truly delicious.

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