Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of luxuriously creamy pasta, studded with succulent shrimp and vibrant broccoli florets. This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo transforms a classic Italian-American dish into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you want to treat yourself to something special without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (226g) | Metric: 226g
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (454g) | Metric: 454g
- 2 cups broccoli florets (200g) | Metric: 200g
- 3 tbsp butter (45g) | Metric: 45g
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (360ml) | Metric: 360ml
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (100g) | Metric: 100g
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pasta and Broccoli Preparation:
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
- Shrimp Cooking:
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Alfredo Sauce Creation:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Final Combination:
- Return the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the mixture.
- Gently toss everything to ensure it’s evenly coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Serving:
- Plate the pasta immediately while hot.
- Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with garlic bread on the side for an extra indulgent meal.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 people
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
Why This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is a Nutritious Delight
This dish is more than just a delicious indulgence – it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Shrimp provides lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, while broccoli offers a significant boost of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, making this a well-rounded meal.
By using fresh ingredients and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy this creamy classic without guilt. The combination of protein, vegetables, and whole grains creates a balanced plate that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a impressive dish to serve guests, this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.