Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo has always been more than just a dish for me; it’s a delicious reminder of the culinary journey that brought me from my grandmother’s quaint kitchen in England to bustling restaurants in the United States, and now to my own cozy kitchen in sunny San Diego. I remember the first time I attempted to make an Alfredo sauce from scratch in one of those hectic restaurant kitchens. It was a chaotic night, but watching the cream transform, the cheese melt perfectly, and the aroma fill the air was nothing short of magical. Now, as a mom of two little ones, this dish has become a family favorite, perfect for those evenings when I want something both comforting and quick. Welcome to my kitchen, where every meal tells a story.
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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
This Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo is the epitome of comfort meets elegance. Firstly, it’s a one-pan wonder—perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant broccoli not only adds nutritional value but also a delightful texture contrast. Plus, this recipe is a nod to my roots, marrying classic English flavors with the boldness I embraced in American kitchens. Lastly, it’s a dish that encourages creativity; you can tweak it to suit your taste, making it uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients. Freshness is everything, especially when it comes to seafood and vegetables. For me, that means a trip to the local farmer’s market, where I can handpick the best produce.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 580 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo: A Weeknight Dinner Delight
Learn how to make delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients. Freshness is everything, especially when it comes to seafood and vegetables. For me, that means a trip to the local farmer’s market, where I can handpick the best produce.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add broccoli to the sauce, cooking until vibrant and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the cooked fettuccine in the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add broccoli to the sauce, cooking until vibrant and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the cooked fettuccine in the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Best Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
Getting this dish perfect requires attention to a few key details, a lesson learned during my restaurant days.
- Always use fresh shrimp; frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh delivers the best flavor and texture.
- When cooking shrimp, avoid overcooking. They should be pink and slightly curled.
- For the sauce, let the cheese melt slowly into the warm cream to avoid clumping.
- A dash of nutmeg might seem unusual, but it adds a subtle warmth that enhances the dish.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Shrimp Scampi Bowls with Irresistible Garlic Bread
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions, whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a gathering with friends.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Add a splash of cream when reheating to restore creamy texture
- Reheat gently over low heat to prevent sauce separation
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo?
The main ingredients for Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo?
The total time to make Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes, Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo?
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll find as much joy in making this Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo as I do. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and flavor, perfect for sharing at the family table. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts or any tweaks you made. Happy cooking!
