Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp, broccoli, and a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce. With fusilli pasta and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s the perfect dinner for a cozy weeknight or when you’re craving something indulgent but quick. The addition of broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also adds a healthy touch to this classic comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a simple yet luxurious dish, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes! The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, makes for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. The homemade Alfredo sauce, made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and milk, is the perfect complement to the shrimp and broccoli. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup!

Ingredients

• For the Pasta and Broccoli:

  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta (or pasta of choice)

  • 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets

• For the Shrimp:

  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided

  • 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off

  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

• For the Alfredo Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup milk

  • 4 ounces cream cheese

  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions.

2. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot and cook them with the pasta.

3. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water. Set both the pasta and broccoli aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

1. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

2. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using), then add them to the pan.

3. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and are fully cooked.

4. Toss the cooked shrimp with the pasta and broccoli.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

1. In the same pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 additional minute.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk, followed by the cream cheese. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

1. Add the pasta and shrimp mixture to the sauce and stir well to combine.

2. Add the reserved pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce to your desired thickness.

3. Remove from heat and fold in the Parmesan cheese.

Serve:

1. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Calories per Serving: 339 kcal

• Course: Main Course

• Cuisine: American

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use Different Pasta: While fusilli is a great choice, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti, depending on your preference.

• Spicy Version: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or sprinkle on top before serving.

• Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and milk for a lighter take on this creamy Alfredo sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra milk to restore the creaminess. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly well! Just thaw them first, either overnight in the fridge or by running them under cold water, and then proceed with the recipe as directed.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and shrimp in advance. Just store them separately, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use non-dairy milk for the sauce?

Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or another non-dairy milk. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

4. How can I make the Alfredo sauce thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, simply cook it a little longer on low heat, or add a bit more flour (make sure to cook it for another minute to avoid a raw flour taste). You can also add more Parmesan for a thicker, creamier consistency.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese, which will give the sauce a slightly different flavor profile.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the flour used in the sauce is a gluten-free variety.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

8. Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, you can increase the amount to 3-4 cloves for a stronger garlic flavor in the Alfredo sauce.

9. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to watch them carefully. Once they turn opaque and slightly curled, they’re done. Overcooking them can make them rubbery.

10. How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?

Check the pasta for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions suggest, and taste a piece. The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite (al dente).

Conclusion

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a quick, creamy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting dish. The combination of shrimp, pasta, broccoli, and a homemade Alfredo sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep time and ingredients, it’s the perfect go-to dinner when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying!

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