Name: Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

I absolutely love creating recipes that feel like a comforting hug in a bowl—and that’s exactly what this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo delivers. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with perfectly cooked shrimp, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta, it’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. I’ve made it on weeknights when I need something fast but impressive, and also for weekend dinners when I want to wow guests without breaking a sweat.

What makes this dish so satisfying is the perfect balance of rich Alfredo sauce and the freshness of broccoli, paired with juicy shrimp that add a seafood twist. It’s not just a pasta dish—it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can bring to your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or someone special, this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo hits the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

Quick & Easy – You can have this creamy, luxurious meal on the table in just about half an hour.
Flavor-Packed – The Alfredo sauce is rich and velvety, coating every piece of pasta and shrimp in cheesy perfection.
Balanced – The broccoli adds freshness and a bit of crunch, balancing the creaminess of the dish.
Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters go back for seconds when this is served.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo?

While fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo dishes, I’ve found that other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or even rigatoni also work beautifully in this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo. The key is to pick a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce well. Penne and rigatoni give you little sauce pockets in every bite, while long strands like fettuccine or linguine wrap themselves in that rich Alfredo goodness. It’s really about texture and what you have on hand—don’t feel like you need to stick to just one kind!

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re adapting for dietary preferences or just using what’s in your fridge, this recipe is incredibly flexible:

Pasta – Swap traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
Shrimp – Try scallops, chicken breast, or tofu for a different protein source.
Broccoli – Cauliflower, spinach, or asparagus can take its place while still providing that fresh bite.
Cream – Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter or vegan twist.
Cheese – Parmesan is classic, but Romano or Asiago can bring a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.
Garlic – If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can work in a pinch.

This is a dish that invites creativity, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.

Ingredients for This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo plays a specific role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Shrimp – The star protein. Juicy, tender shrimp add natural sweetness and richness to the dish.
Broccoli Florets – Bring a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that balances out the creamy sauce.
Pasta (like fettuccine or penne) – The base of the dish. It holds the Alfredo sauce and ties everything together.
Butter – Helps sauté the shrimp and builds the foundation of the Alfredo sauce.
Heavy Cream – The key to that luxurious, velvety texture we all crave in Alfredo dishes.
Garlic (minced) – Adds bold, savory depth to the sauce and enhances the shrimp.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Gives the sauce its signature cheesy flavor and helps it thicken naturally.
Olive Oil – Used to cook the shrimp evenly and keep it tender.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer of the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who like a little heat to contrast the creaminess.

Each of these ingredients brings something essential to the table—skip one, and you might miss a layer of flavor or texture that makes this dish sing.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining—this starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli

While the shrimp cooks, steam the broccoli until just tender and bright green—about 3–4 minutes. If you prefer, you can blanch it quickly in boiling water, then transfer to ice water to keep the color vibrant.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer (not a boil), then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and shrimp to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

How Long to Cook the Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

This Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo comes together in about 25 to 30 minutes total:

Pasta: 8–10 minutes (depending on the type you use)
Shrimp: 3–4 minutes total (quick cooking to avoid toughness)
Broccoli: 3–4 minutes (steamed or blanched)
Alfredo Sauce: 5–6 minutes to thicken and meld
Final Toss & Combine: 2–3 minutes

This makes it a great weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special and comforting.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook fast, and once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own results in a creamier sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water – The starch in pasta water helps loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, and helps it cling better to the noodles.
Blanch Broccoli Separately – Don’t cook it in the same pot with the pasta. Blanching separately gives you more control over texture and keeps it from turning mushy.
Warm the Cream Before Adding Cheese – Adding Parmesan to warm cream (not boiling) ensures it melts smoothly without clumping.
Toss, Don’t Stir Aggressively – Once everything is in the pan, gently toss to coat rather than overmixing, which can break the shrimp or make the pasta mushy.
Finish with a Touch of Lemon Zest or Juice (Optional) – Just a splash brightens the richness of the Alfredo without overpowering it.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Cooking Shrimp Too Early – If you cook the shrimp first and let them sit too long, they can become dry when reheated. Cook them just before combining with the sauce.
Overcooking the Pasta – Since the pasta will sit in warm sauce at the end, slightly undercooking it during boiling will give you the perfect final texture.
Using Low-Quality Cheese – The sauce relies on Parmesan for richness and body. Pre-packaged or shelf-stable cheese often doesn’t melt well and can ruin the texture.
Boiling the Cream – High heat can cause the cream to separate or become grainy. Keep it at a gentle simmer to maintain that velvety consistency.
Skipping the Pasta Water – That starchy water is your best friend for adjusting the sauce. Add it little by little to thin things out without losing flavor.
Adding Broccoli Too Early – Whether steaming or blanching, do it close to the end so the broccoli stays bright and crisp, not dull and soggy.

What to Serve With Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

A classic pairing that helps you mop up every drop of creamy Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons bring a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Lemon Arugula Salad

The peppery bite of arugula with a zesty lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Simple and elegant—adds an extra green touch without overpowering the main dish.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and seafood beautifully.

Grilled Zucchini or Squash

Lightly charred veggies add a smoky touch and keep the meal feeling light.

Parmesan-Crusted Breadsticks

Cheesy, crispy breadsticks elevate the meal and echo the Parmesan in the sauce.

Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing

A light, sweet finish to cleanse the palate after a rich, savory dish.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo stores quite well with a few simple tricks:

Refrigerate – Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently – Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave is fine too—just cover and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Avoid Freezing – Alfredo sauce tends to separate and become grainy when frozen and thawed. For best quality, enjoy it fresh or within a few days.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Note: This is an approximation and can vary depending on exact ingredients and serving sizes.

Calories: 610
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Cholesterol: 190mg

This dish is rich and filling, offering a great balance of protein and carbs—perfect for when you need a satisfying, complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work great! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.

What type of cream should I use for Alfredo sauce?

Heavy cream is best for a rich, thick sauce. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but it may not be as velvety.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based butter, dairy-free cream (like cashew or coconut cream), and nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the components (cook the pasta, steam broccoli, and peel shrimp) ahead of time, but for best results, make the sauce fresh and combine everything just before serving.

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from clumping?

Use freshly grated Parmesan and make sure the cream is hot—but not boiling—when adding the cheese. Stir constantly until smooth.

What pasta alternatives can I use?

Try gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter or gluten-free version.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be great additions. Just cook them before adding to the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all—but if you like a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way. Add to taste when seasoning the final dish.

Conclusion

Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is one of those magical meals that checks all the boxes: rich, quick, comforting, and full of flavor. With its creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, succulent shrimp, and fresh broccoli, it’s both satisfying and elegant enough for a dinner party—or a solo night in. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this dish will never steer you wrong.