Easy Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo You’ll Love

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings creamy, garlicky goodness together with fresh broccoli and succulent shrimp. This perfect weeknight dinner is both satisfying and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice when you want something comforting yet quick. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply craving a creamy pasta meal, this delicious Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo will become your new go-to recipe that’s ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Rich and Creamy: A luscious Alfredo sauce that’s perfectly balanced without being too heavy.
• Healthy Boost: Fresh broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color, balancing out the richness.
• Protein-Packed: Shrimp provides lean protein that cooks fast and absorbs the flavors wonderfully.
• Customizable: Easily adjusted with your favorite pasta or additional veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo recipe uses simple, staple ingredients that combine to create a burst of flavor and creamy texture in every bite. Each component enhances the dish’s overall harmony, turning regular ingredients into something extraordinary.

• Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for tenderness and great seafood flavor.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a wonderful crunch and healthy greens.
• Butter and Garlic: Classic base for a fragrant and rich sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the creamy foundation necessary for a perfect Alfredo.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Pasta: Fettuccine or your preferred pasta serves as a stable vessel for the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing shrimp and adding a subtle richness.

Variations for Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

One of the best things about Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is how flexible it is. Feel free to tweak ingredients or add extras based on your dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry. These variations keep the recipe exciting and fun to customize.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap shrimp for mushrooms or extra broccoli for a plant-based delight.
• Low Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in mozzarella or fontina cheese for extra melty goodness.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme to brighten the dish.

How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cleaning and deveining your shrimp, trimming broccoli into bite-sized florets, mincing garlic, and grating fresh Parmesan. Having everything ready before cooking makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes of pasta cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water so they become tender but still crisp. Drain together and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper, cooking until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set them aside, keeping their juices in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned. Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything in creamy Alfredo. Warm through for a minute or two, allowing all the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will ensure the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta absorbs sauce better and provides a nice bite.
• Low and Slow Sauce: Simmer the Alfredo gently to avoid curdling or splitting of the cream.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes far superior to pre-grated versions.
• Keep garlic golden: Avoid burning garlic—it should be soft and fragrant for the best flavor.

How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley or basil over the finished dish for a lovely pop of flavor and color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement its creamy texture. Roasted vegetables offer another nutritious and tasty accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo in shallow bowls to showcase the gorgeous sauce. For a fun twist, plate it over a bed of spaghetti squash or inside halved baked bell peppers for an impressive presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the shrimp tender and the sauce flavorful.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, but note shrimp might lose some texture when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk helps restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well; just be sure to thaw and properly drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives to keep it creamy without dairy.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free variety such as rice or chickpea pasta. The sauce and other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can create a similar texture by combining milk with a small amount of butter or cream cheese, then simmering gently to thicken.

Can I prepare Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo ahead of time?

You can prep shrimp and vegetables in advance, but it’s best to combine with the sauce and pasta right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a creamy, comforting plate of Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo to lift your spirits after a busy day. Its rich flavors, balanced with fresh broccoli and tender shrimp, make it an unbeatable dinner that’s both easy and impressive. Give this recipe a try and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Related Posts

• Why Sausage Alfredo Ravioli Lasagna Is Irresistible
• How to Make the Best Scalloped Potatoes
• Easy Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet Meal

Print