This creamy Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a tasty treat! It brings together succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce that hugs every bite of pasta.
I love how quick it is to whip up this dish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without all the fuss—plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine is classic for Alfredo. If you’re out, try spaghetti, linguine, or even penne. They work well too, and it’s all about what you have on hand!
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is perfect, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just thaw it before cooking. If you’re seafood-averse, grilled chicken is a great swap!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli is a decent substitute—just cook it less to avoid mushiness.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich. Yogurt can add creaminess too, just mix it in gently to avoid curdling.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan creates a better texture, but pre-grated works fine if that’s all you have. Pecorino Romano can give a saltier twist if you prefer that flavor!
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium-high. It should be hot, but not smoking!
- Season shrimp simply with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, avoiding overcrowding; cook for about 2 minutes on each side.
- Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done! Overcooking makes them tough, so watch closely.
This way, you’ll have tender, juicy shrimp that complement your Alfredo sauce perfectly!
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It includes roughly 10 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. Once cooked, drain both the pasta and broccoli, but remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later use!
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. This will keep them nice and tender!
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Now, in the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick! If the sauce gets too thick for your liking, slowly add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together to ensure that the flavors meld nicely. If you’re using bacon for an extra burst of flavor, add it in now as well!
5. Add the Pasta:
Finally, add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and gently toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is ready! Serve immediately, and don’t forget to garnish with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a great option. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly by submerging them in cold water. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the fettuccine pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as rice noodles or gluten-free fettuccine. Just follow the cooking instructions on the packaging for the best results.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or cashew cream, though it will change the flavor slightly.
