Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

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Creamy, garlicky, and packed with tender shrimp and crisp broccoli, this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo recipe is the kind of dish that instantly elevates a weeknight dinner into something restaurant-worthy. It comes together quickly, which means you don’t have to wait long for a comforting bowl of pasta that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

What makes this dish stand out is the silky Alfredo sauce that clings to every noodle, hugging bites of juicy shrimp and vibrant broccoli florets. It’s rich without being heavy, making it perfect for any season, and the blend of seafood and greens adds a fresh twist to traditional Alfredo pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect dinner. It’s fast, foolproof, and family-approved. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want something cozy for yourself, this dish delivers flavor and satisfaction without much effort. The combination of creamy Parmesan sauce, lightly seared shrimp, and steamed broccoli is both comforting and a little fancy—great for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.

Plus, it reheats surprisingly well, making it a wonderful meal prep option too.

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp and Broccoli for This Recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Frozen shrimp and broccoli work perfectly fine here—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. For shrimp, defrost them under cold running water until they’re no longer icy. Pat dry to get a good sear in the pan. As for broccoli, you can steam it from frozen or let it thaw a bit to reduce cooking time. While fresh ingredients often offer a brighter flavor and firmer texture, this recipe is very forgiving and still delicious with frozen staples.

Ingredients for the Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

This dish leans on a few powerhouse ingredients that come together beautifully. The star is, of course, the shrimp—they add a naturally sweet, briny flavor that balances perfectly with the rich Alfredo sauce. Broccoli introduces a pop of green and a touch of earthiness, and the pasta soaks up every drop of creamy goodness.

• Shrimp
• Broccoli florets
• Fettuccine pasta
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Garlic cloves
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil

How To Make the Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

While the shrimp is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the Alfredo sauce. If needed, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common pitfall is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cook fast, and once they curl tightly and become firm, they’re done. Leaving them on the heat too long can make them rubbery. Another mistake is using high heat when making the Alfredo sauce—this can cause the cream to separate and the cheese to clump.

Also, don’t forget to salt your pasta water. It’s the only chance to season the pasta itself. Lastly, avoid adding cold shrimp or broccoli straight to the sauce; it can cool everything down and make the texture less cohesive.

How to Serve and Store This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

This hearty recipe serves 4 people comfortably, especially when paired with a side or a salad. For serving, plate it up while it’s hot and top it with more Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon if you want to cut through the richness.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce without drying it out.

What to Serve With Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Golden, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their slight acidity and burst of flavor add a refreshing element to the meal.

Lemon Asparagus

Bright, citrusy asparagus balances the richness of the Alfredo.

White Wine

A glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp and creamy sauce.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini slices add a smoky depth and extra veggies.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes offer a bright and light counterpoint to this rich dish.

Olive Tapenade Crostini

Add a salty, briny snack on the side to wake up the palate before digging into the pasta.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving the creamy comfort of this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo, you might want to try a few more decadent pasta dishes from the site:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you want juicy, golden chicken bathed in a rich garlic sauce.

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a sweet and savory sauce that sticks to every bite.

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta when you’re craving bold flavor with minimal effort.

• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach for a double hit of shrimp and greens in cheesy comfort.

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini if you’re in the mood for something ultra cheesy and satisfying.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with extra garlic or swap the broccoli for spinach? Maybe added a dash of chili flakes for a little kick?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes. Your creativity always inspires me and other readers too.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and fresh meal ideas on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner!

Conclusion

Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is a go-to recipe that delivers a creamy, flavorful, and well-balanced meal in less than an hour. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy and impress.

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