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 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta because it combines my favorite flavors in a rich and satisfying dish. The creamy sauce on perfectly cooked pasta, paired with tender shrimp and bright broccoli, creates an irresistible meal that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe allows for customization with various spices and vegetables, making it a staple in my kitchen. Plus, with just a few ingredients, it's surprisingly easy to whip up a restaurant-quality dinner right at home in only 30 minutes!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:01:37.520Z

When I first made Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The secret lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. I opted for a light cream sauce that envelops the shrimp and broccoli, enhancing their natural flavors rather than overpowering them. The sauteed garlic adds a punch that pairs beautifully with the rich cream.

One tip I discovered was to thinly slice the broccoli to allow it to cook evenly and quickly within the pasta. This way, you achieve a perfect balance of textures, with crunchy broccoli contrasted by the tender pasta and succulent shrimp. It's a delightful combination that has become a favorite in my household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and flavorful sauce that brings the dish together
Perfectly cooked shrimp that adds a savory touch
Bright broccoli that not only tastes amazing but adds nutrition

Cooking the Perfect Fettuccine

When it comes to cooking pasta, timing is everything. For fettuccine, I recommend boiling it in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes until it's al dente. The pasta should have a slight bite but not feel overly firm. If you’re unsure, taste a strand a minute before the recommended cooking time is up. Remember to reserve that cup of pasta water, as it will be invaluable for adjusting your cream sauce later!

If you're looking to enhance your pasta's flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a splash of olive oil to the boiling water. This subtle infusion helps the fettuccine stand out in the final dish. Once the pasta is done, draining it carefully is important; I usually use a colander but suggest shaking it lightly to get rid of excess water without over-draining, which keeps it from sticking.

The Role of Broccoli and Garlic

Broccoli not only adds color but also a nutritional boost to this creamy dish. By sautéing the florets instead of boiling them, you help retain their vibrant green color and crunchy texture. Aim for a sauté time of 3-4 minutes, ensuring they are tender but still bright. If you're looking to mix things up, try substituting with asparagus or green beans, which work wonderfully in this dish too.

Garlic plays a pivotal role in infusing the sauce with rich flavor. When sautéing, cook the minced garlic until it's fragrant and just slightly golden—about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste. For an extra kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle heat that complements the cream beautifully.

Cream Sauce Tips and Adjustments

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish, creating a luxurious coating for the pasta and veggies. To achieve the perfect consistency, allow the heavy cream to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes before adding Parmesan. You want it to thicken slightly but not boil vigorously; boiling can cause the cream to separate, resulting in an unappetizing texture. Stir constantly for the best results.

If you're looking to make lighter substitutions, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream, although this may alter the flavor profile slightly. You can also tweak the cheesiness by using a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually incorporate that reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure everything is prepped before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the dish:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Broccoli

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until tender yet vibrant in color.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. Then, add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the shrimp for chicken or mushrooms for a different take on the recipe.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta can be made ahead for busy weeknight dinners. You can prepare the sauce and sauté the shrimp and broccoli in advance, then simply cook the fettuccine when it's time to eat. Store the sauce and shrimp mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a little pasta water if needed to bring back the creaminess.

While I don't typically recommend freezing the dish due to the cream sauce's potential to separate, you can freeze the shrimp and broccoli mix separately. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat it gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta, consider serving it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The cool crunch of a salad balances the creamy texture of the dish beautifully. For a punch of flavor, a sprinkle of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the final dish brightens the overall taste and offsets the richness of the cream sauce.

For those who like a bit of texture, topping the pasta with toasted pine nuts or crispy panko breadcrumbs adds an enjoyable crunch. Customize your garnishing with grilled lemon halves alongside for an interactive element—just squeeze it right before diving in to add freshness with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, though the texture will be slightly different.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the shrimp.

→ What can I pair this pasta with?

This dish goes well with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.