Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo in 30 Minutes

ByEmma

Craving a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without the hassle? This Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is your go-to. Juicy shrimp, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta are enveloped in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Contents

🛒 Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup heavy cream for extra richness)
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
  • Drain pasta and broccoli; set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Whisk in flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in milk (and cream, if using), ensuring no lumps form.
  • Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

4. Combine and Serve

  • Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp to the sauce.
  • Toss to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated with the sauce.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Shrimp Selection: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for a meatier bite.
  • Pasta Choices: While fettuccine is traditional, penne or linguine also work well.
  • Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to maintain creaminess.

📌 Final Thoughts

This Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please.

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