Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Description:
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s quick and easy to make at home. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple salad.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
For the Shrimp & Broccoli:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Steam the Broccoli:
While pasta cooks, bring a small pot of water to a boil.
Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce.
Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
Let it warm for 1-2 minutes.
Serve:
Plate the pasta and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1 serving out of 4 total servings)
Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 225mg
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 5g
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them first. Run them under cold water for a few minutes or let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
2. What pasta works best for Alfredo?
Fettuccine is the classic choice, but you can use penne, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. You can mix milk with a little butter to make it creamier.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-
free pasta and make sure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.