This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy and comforting dish. With fresh shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich sauce, it’s both tasty and satisfying!
I love how quick this meal comes together. You can whip it up for dinner in no time, and it feels like a treat without the fuss. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🍤🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This recipe shines with fettuccine because of its flat shape, which holds the sauce well. If you don’t have fettuccine, try linguine or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish, but you can use any size. If seafood isn’t an option, cooked chicken or even tofu could work well!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition. You can substitute with other veggies like asparagus or spinach if broccoli isn’t your favorite or in season.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative for a delicious result.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. Just watch the salt in your dish since Pecorino can be saltier!
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Is Smooth and Creamy?
The sauce texture is crucial for a great Alfredo. Start by melting the butter and garlic over medium heat, avoiding high heat which can burn the garlic. Once you add the cream and milk, keep it at a gentle simmer for a few minutes to let it thicken.
- Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing well to let it melt without clumping.
- If your sauce gets too thick, just add some reserved pasta water, a spoonful at a time, until it’s just right!
Remember, a low-and-slow approach works best to achieve that smooth, velvety sauce. Enjoy cooking! 🌿
Delicious Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything together for a delicious meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After the pasta has been cooking for 3 minutes, gently add the broccoli florets and let them cook together. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli, saving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This will help you adjust the sauce later.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so that it thickens a bit.
4. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you get your desired consistency. Season the sauce with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked shrimp and broccoli back to the skillet. Add the drained fettuccine pasta as well. Toss everything gently to ensure that the sauce evenly coats the pasta, shrimp, and broccoli.
6. Final Heat and Serve:
Let everything cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s heated through. Once you’re ready to serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo immediately and enjoy this creamy, delicious dish! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To defrost quickly, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or use a mix of milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just keep in mind that the texture may not be as rich as with heavy cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I Add Other Veggies?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers to mix up the flavors and add more nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so they don’t overcook.
