Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli

Name: Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I absolutely love making Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli when I want a quick yet decadent meal. The creamy alfredo sauce blends beautifully with the tender shrimp and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights or when I have friends over for dinner. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes! Whether served over pasta or on its own, it's a sure crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:09:38.797Z

When I first made Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli, I had just come home after a long day. I wanted something that was comforting yet not too overly complex, and this recipe delivered. The garlic and butter combined with the heavy cream create a luxurious sauce that feels indulgent without requiring hours of cooking. Adding the broccoli not only gives the dish a beautiful pop of color but also balances the richness of the sauce.

Through experimentation, I discovered that mixing the cooked shrimp directly into the sauce at the end allows them to absorb some of the creamy goodness, making every bite heavenly. I love garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley; it takes the presentation to the next level and makes it feel like a gourmet meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic
Juicy shrimp cooked to perfection
Nutritious broccoli for added color and crunch

Understanding the Alfredo Sauce

The foundation of a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce lies in the balance of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. In this recipe, the heavy cream ensures a luscious mouthfeel, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. For a slightly different taste, you might experiment with Pecorino Romano cheese, which will add a saltier and tangier profile to your sauce.

When making the Alfredo sauce, it’s crucial to keep the heat on low once you add the heavy cream. This allows the sauce to gently simmer and prevents it from separating or curdling. Stirring in the cheese gradually and ensuring it melts smoothly will give you the desired glossy consistency, making it a satisfying coating for your pasta and shrimp.

Perfecting the Shrimp

For perfectly cooked shrimp, be sure to watch their color closely as they cook. They should turn from a greyish hue to pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so aim for about 4-5 minutes in the pan. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them before cooking to ensure even doneness.

If you're looking to elevate the flavor of the shrimp, consider marinating them briefly in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking. This adds a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli, consider pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a twist, you can also replace the fettuccine with zoodles (zucchini noodles) to make this meal lighter and more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the sauce, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Alfredo

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 4-5 minutes.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.

Serve

Divide the shrimp Alfredo among plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter while sautéing the shrimp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier option, swap the heavy cream for a mixture of Greek yogurt and low-fat milk. This will reduce the calories without sacrificing the creamy texture. Remember to add the yogurt off the heat to prevent it from curdling.

Should you need a gluten-free version, simply replace the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta. Make sure it is cooked until al dente, as gluten-free varieties can become mushy quicker than regular pasta.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredients while keeping the cooking times relatively the same. Just be sure to use a larger pot for the pasta and a bigger skillet so that everything cooks evenly.

For smaller servings, you can cut the ingredients in half. Be mindful to adjust the cooking times based on the amount of shrimp you have, ensuring they still cook quickly without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions to this dish.

→ What can I use instead of shrimp?

You can substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.