This Creamy Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Tender fettuccine coated in a rich parmesan cream sauce, juicy sautéed shrimp, and vibrant broccoli florets come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a restaurant-style treat at home, this pasta delivers silky texture, bold garlic flavor, and a satisfying richness in every bite.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Pasta
- 250 g fettuccine or linguine
- 1½ cups broccoli florets
- Salt for boiling
For the Shrimp
- 250–300 g shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pasta water (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This softens the broccoli while keeping it bright green. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside. Do not overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly. Add the shrimp back into the pan and mix again. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes so it absorbs the flavors.
5. Serve
Transfer to a bowl, garnish with fresh parsley, and top with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness.
Chef’s Tips
- Don’t overcook shrimp: They turn rubbery quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt smoothly; freshly grated gives the creamiest sauce.
- Add pasta water slowly: It helps adjust the sauce without thinning the flavor.
- Broccoli alternatives: Swap with spinach, peas, or asparagus for variety.
- Make it lighter: Replace half the cream with milk and increase Parmesan for flavor.
- Boost flavor: A squeeze of lemon over the shrimp adds brightness to this rich dish.
- Serve immediately: Alfredo thickens as it rests, so enjoy as soon as it’s ready.
