If you’re craving a dish that brings comfort, freshness, and a touch of elegance all in one bowl, look no further than this Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta. It’s a simple, yet indulgent meal that balances succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your choice of fettuccine or penne. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There’s something magical about a pasta dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, slightly garlicky, and just the right amount of spice. This Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta nails that combo every time. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also offers a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs all in one. The shrimp cooks up tender and juicy, the broccoli adds a vibrant crunch, and the creamy Parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully.

Plus, this recipe has the flexibility to adapt to what you have on hand or your preferred pasta shape. If you love seafood and crave creamy pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s just as satisfying as a restaurant dish but way more affordable and homey.

Gather These Ingredients

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne works best for holding the sauce)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

What’s in the Gear List

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Colander to drain pasta and broccoli
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board

Cooking Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them until tender but still crisp. Drain both the pasta and broccoli, then set aside. This method keeps the broccoli bright green and perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and gently simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cream slightly thickens.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Shrimp

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. Return the shrimp to the pan, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently until the cheese melts into the sauce and everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm, perhaps alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Seasonal Twists

Swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans in spring for a fresh seasonal touch.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and tang.
In autumn, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or butternut squash cubes for earthiness.
Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Little Things that Matter

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—pre-grated often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Don’t overcook your shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left on the heat too long.
Reserve a splash of pasta water when draining to loosen the sauce if needed—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles better.
For extra garlic flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder to the shrimp seasoning.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time to save time on busy nights. Cook the pasta and broccoli, and sauté the shrimp separately. Refrigerate all components in airtight containers. When ready to eat, gently reheat the cream sauce in a pan, toss in the pasta, broccoli, and shrimp, and heat through. Add a little cream or reserved pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Common Qs About Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.

What pasta type works best for this dish?

Fettuccine and penne are excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like linguine or rigatoni.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick to balance the richness of the cream. You can adjust the amount or omit them altogether based on your heat preference.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – a zesty alternative featuring bright lemon notes and tender shrimp.
Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni – perfect for broccoli lovers wanting a cheesy twist.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi – a luxurious, saucy dish with tender gnocchi and savory sun-dried tomatoes.

Let’s Eat

Gather your favorite fork and dive into this bowl of creamy goodness. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures—from the tender shrimp and crisp broccoli to the silky sauce that wraps around every noodle. Whether it’s a cozy solo dinner or a family feast, this Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more. Enjoy the comforting vibes and the simple joy of a homemade meal done right.

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