Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli

Name: Shrimp Alfredo With Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasons of Comfort

I love whipping up Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli for its creamy decadence and fresh flavors. The combination of tender shrimp and vibrant broccoli draped in a rich Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. This dish has become a family favorite in our home for special occasions or cozy dinners. With just the right balance of elegance and comfort, it’s the perfect dish when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:17:36.634Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was. The key is in the sauce; a simple blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan works wonders. I also sauté the shrimp just until they’re pink and juicy, and that’s crucial to prevent them from becoming rubbery. The broccoli adds a lovely crunch and color, making the dish not only delicious but visually appealing too!

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips for making my Alfredo sauce perfect every time. I always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts beautifully and gives a richer flavor. A drizzle of olive oil while sautéing the shrimp elevates the dish to another level. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your cooking repertoire as it has in mine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every bite
Juicy shrimp paired perfectly with fresh broccoli
Quick prep time for a weeknight dinner that feels special

Perfecting Your Shrimp

When preparing shrimp for this dish, ensure they are peeled and deveined, as this enhances both the flavor and presentation. Fresh shrimp will yield the best taste, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly. An easy tip is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Cook the shrimp until they turn a vibrant pink and opaque; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Overcooking can lead to a tough texture, so keep an eye on them.

To elevate the flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-20 minutes in a bit of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil before cooking. This not only adds a zesty kick but also enhances the overall sweetness of the shrimp, complementing the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce beautifully.

Alfredo Sauce Secrets

The richness of this dish is undeniably rooted in the Alfredo sauce. Using heavy cream is essential, as it provides the luxurious texture that clings to the pasta and seafood. Be sure to bring the cream to a gentle simmer rather than a boil, which can cause it to separate. Stirring in the grated Parmesan gradually allows it to melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping, creating that dreamy, glossy finish you want.

For those looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half and half or a mixture of milk and cream, though keep in mind that this will alter the sauce's richness. Adding a bit of cream cheese can also help maintain a creamy texture while using lower-fat ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheating can be tricky, as the sauce may thicken. I recommend adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating over low heat to restore that creaminess. Stir gently as you warm to avoid separation.

When serving, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor. Pair this dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. For variations, you can add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for additional depth or replace the broccoli with spinach for a different green element.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Alfredo

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

Gather all the ingredients before you start for an easier cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked fettuccine, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is well-coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli alongside a fresh green salad!

Pro Tips

For a bit more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can replace traditional fettuccine with whole grain or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free choice. This not only adds a refreshing twist but also bumps up the nutritional value.

For a more robust flavor profile, try adding cooked bacon or pancetta to the dish. The savory notes will complement the sweetness of the shrimp and the richness of the sauce. A splash of white wine (about ¼ cup) added to the skillet after sautéing the shrimp can also enhance the overall taste, creating a nuanced backdrop for the creamy sauce.

Thickening the Sauce

Should your Alfredo sauce be thinner than desired, don't worry! You can easily thicken it by incorporating a cornstarch slurry. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then stir this mixture into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for a minute or two until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness.

Another method is to also incorporate a little extra grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. As it melts, it will naturally thicken the mixture while enhancing the flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning afterwards, as both cornstarch and cheese can influence the overall saltiness of your dish.

Scaling the Recipe

If you plan to make Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli for a larger gathering, scaling up the recipe is straightforward. For each additional pound of shrimp, add an extra cup of pasta and 1 cup of heavy cream. Just be mindful that the cooking time should remain consistent to ensure everything cooks evenly.

When increasing the recipe, it might be easier to work in batches, especially when sautéing the shrimp and preparing the sauce. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, affecting the final texture. Cooking in smaller batches will help maintain that ideal sear and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.