This creamy Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a cozy dish that brings together tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect dinner for a busy evening!
I love how the broccoli gives a nice crunch and color to this dish! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Serve it with garlic bread, and you’ll be all set for a delightful meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta hugs the sauce beautifully! You can swap it for linguine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor, but frozen shrimp work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them properly! If you want a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas instead.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch. You can replace it with other veggies like asparagus or spinach if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half and half works too! For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese can be good alternatives. Always taste and adjust based on what you have.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Cream Sauce?
Making a creamy Alfredo sauce is simple, but you need to pay attention to a few details. Start by melting the butter and sautéing the garlic, but avoid browning the garlic! A nice golden color enhances its sweetness.
- After adding heavy cream, keep stirring to avoid lumps. Let it simmer so it thickens but not boil.
- Once you add the cheese, keep stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If it’s too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will help loosen it.
Finally, remember to taste your sauce! Adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your liking. Enjoy a creamy and satisfying Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo! 🦐💚
Delicious Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a busy night, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, throw in the broccoli florets. Drain both the pasta and the broccoli together, and remember to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkling them with a bit of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and opaque. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant—careful not to let it brown! Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Add the Cheese and Combine:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. If it feels too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create your preferred consistency.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked shrimp, fettuccine, and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat it with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, and season with more salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you desire. Serve immediately, and enjoy your comforting, creamy Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or use milk mixed with a bit of butter for a more budget-friendly option. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works beautifully, though it will give a slightly different flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your dish with different veggies! Asparagus, peas, or spinach all make great additions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—add softer veggies like spinach towards the end to prevent overcooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
