Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that brings together succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta all coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love indulgent flavors but also want to incorporate healthy ingredients like broccoli into their meals. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream creates a velvety sauce that complements the delicate sweetness of shrimp and the subtle bitterness of broccoli. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the Alfredo sauce.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo, a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the best of creamy pasta and seafood in one delicious dish!
