Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meals

I absolutely adore this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta! The creamy texture of the sauce beautifully complements the fresh shrimp and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that's both satisfying and indulgent. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up this meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The blend of garlic and Parmesan adds depth, while the bright green broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutrition. Trust me, this is a recipe you'll want to keep in your rotation!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:48:51.448Z

When I first tried my hand at making Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I found that using fresh shrimp really elevates the dish. The sweetness of the shrimp, combined with the creamy sauce developed from sautéed garlic and rich cream, creates a profile that's simply irresistible.

As I experimented with this recipe, I discovered that adding lemon juice right at the end brings a brightness that cuts through the richness. It's a small detail, but it makes such a difference! This dish quickly became a favorite in my household, and I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully
Sweet shrimp balanced with the crunch of fresh broccoli
Quick and easy recipe ready in 30 minutes

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp in this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. Opt for shrimp that are firm and translucent, avoiding any that have a strong fishy smell. Fresh shrimp not only contribute a sweeter taste but also maintain a pleasant chewiness when cooked correctly. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can be a great alternative; just ensure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excessive moisture.

The broccoli in this dish adds not just vibrant color but also essential nutrients. I prefer using fresh broccoli florets for their crisp texture and bright flavor. When shopping, look for florets that are a deep green color with tight buds; this indicates freshness. If you find yourself short on time, you can use pre-cut broccoli from the store or even frozen florets, which will save prep time while still delivering a nutritious punch.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta is key to elevating this dish. When making the sauce, be sure to bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer rather than a boil. This helps prevent it from curdling and ensures a smooth, glossy finish. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually until it melts completely into the cream, creating a thick and rich sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta.

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt. This still gives you a creamy texture while reducing the overall fat content. Just remember that with lighter dairy, the sauce may be a bit thinner, so adjust by adding a touch of cornstarch mixed with water if you want to thicken it further without losing the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Chopped parsley for garnish

Ensure everything is prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your homemade pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta is not only quick to prepare but can also be made ahead of time. If you're planning to make it in advance, cook the pasta and broccoli first but keep them separate from the sauce until you're ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much of the sauce and becoming soggy. You can store the cooked pasta and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of cream or broth to the skillet as you warm the dish, which helps replicate the fresh texture of the pasta and sauce. Remember that shrimp only need to be heated until warmed through; about 1-2 minutes should suffice.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair this dish with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch. If you're in the mood for a touch of heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.

If you're entertaining or feel like indulging a bit more, consider adding textures and flavors like toasted pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch. They can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor complexity of your pasta, making it a stunning centerpiece for your dining table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus would be great additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.