Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta when I want a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a creamy sauce creates a meal that delights the senses. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. The flavors meld beautifully, and with just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in my own kitchen!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:44:50.349Z

When I first experimented with combining shrimp and broccoli in a creamy sauce, I was blown away by the result. The key is to cook the pasta al dente so it retains a slight bite, which complements the tender shrimp and broccoli perfectly. Utilizing a splash of the pasta cooking water in the sauce enhances the creaminess without making it too heavy.

After several tries, I’ve found that finishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice elevates the flavors to new heights. The brightness of the lemon cuts through the richness, adding a luxurious touch that makes every bite truly satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops each strand of pasta
Perfectly seared shrimp bring a delightful depth of flavor
Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutrition

Choosing Quality Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this pasta dish, opt for the freshest choice you can find. Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent, with a mild ocean scent. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly thawed before cooking, as this prevents excess moisture that could water down your sauce. To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the shrimp briefly in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt before cooking. This simple step can elevate the dish impressively.

Cooking the shrimp to the perfect doneness is essential. Take care not to overcook them, as shrimp can turn rubbery quickly. Aim for a cooking time of 3-4 minutes until they turn a rosy pink with opaque centers. This also allows them to maintain their succulent texture, making them the star of the dish.

Broccoli: Preparation and Cooking Tips

For this recipe, using fresh broccoli florets will add not only vibrant color but also a delightful crunch. When preparing your broccoli, consider cutting them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Blanching the florets for 1-2 minutes before sautéing can enhance their color and tenderness, while also preserving some of the nutrients. This quick method results in broccoli that retains a lively green hue and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

When sautéing the broccoli with the shrimp, it’s important to keep the heat at medium to allow the broccoli to soften without becoming mushy. You'll know it's ready when it becomes bright green and tender but still has a slight bite, about 3 minutes of cooking time. This texture contrast complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The heavy cream in this recipe forms the luxurious base for the sauce, delivering a rich flavor that clings to the pasta. Using a high-fat cream ensures a thicker consistency that won’t separate while cooking. As you heat the cream, a gentle simmer allows you to slowly integrate the cheese without clumps. Adding the reserved pasta water gradually helps you adjust the sauce's thickness to your preference, so don’t rush this step.

Consider experimenting with different cheeses for added flavor. While Parmesan is a classic choice, you might try mixing in a bit of Pecorino Romano or mozzarella for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning since these cheeses have different salt levels. The goal is to achieve a creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly, creating a mouthwatering finish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Sauce

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp and Broccoli

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté until bright green, approximately 3 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well to coat evenly with the sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, stirring to combine. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. You can also use frozen shrimp if you're short on time—just be sure to thaw thoroughly before cooking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers after making this delicious shrimp and broccoli cream pasta, proper storage is key to maintaining the flavors and textures. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best to keep the pasta and sauce together to prevent the pasta from drying out.

When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a little extra heavy cream can help revive the creaminess and prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture in the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is wonderful on its own, consider pairing it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the pasta beautifully. Additionally, crusty garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, allowing you to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

For a hint of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving. This not only adds a flavor dimension but also an appealing touch of color. Finally, a few fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be chopped and sprinkled on top just before serving for an aromatic finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Asparagus, peas, or spinach would all work beautifully in this dish.

→ What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be lighter in texture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when you're ready to cook the pasta.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

The dish can be frozen, but the texture of the shrimp may change upon reheating. It’s recommended to enjoy it fresh!