Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces fettuccine or your pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Collection

I love making Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta because it perfectly combines the richness of creamy sauce with the freshness of broccoli and shrimp. Every bite is an explosion of flavors that feels indulgent yet satisfying. This dish always impresses my guests, and they often ask for seconds! The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-03-20T21:52:23.176Z

Making Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta is a labor of love for me, especially when I’m trying to impress friends or family. I start by sautéing garlic and shrimp together, which infuses the dish with incredible flavor straight away. As the shrimp cook, I throw in the broccoli to soften it just slightly, adding color and nutrients without losing that fresh crunch.

What I love most about this recipe is the creamy sauce that ties everything together. I use a combination of heavy cream and grated Parmesan, which creates a luscious texture. Always make sure to add the cheese gradually, stirring continuously for a perfectly smooth sauce. This little trick prevents clumping and ensures every strand of pasta is coated beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy sauce that envelops every bite
Fresh textures of shrimp and broccoli add a delightful crunch
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

When cooking pasta for Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta, it's crucial to use plenty of salted water. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, ensuring it contributes positively to the dish. For fettuccine, aim for a cooking time of around 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. To check for doneness, taste a strand; it should be firm yet tender, also known as 'al dente.' Remember to reserve some of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can be a magical addition to your cream sauce.

While the pasta is cooking, keep an eye on the texture. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the delightful contrast with the tender shrimp and fresh broccoli. If you're using a different pasta shape, adjust the cooking time as needed, following the package instructions. I find that pasta made from semolina or whole grain holds up better in creamy sauces, offering both great taste and added nutrition to the dish.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish, so using high-quality heavy cream can significantly elevate the flavor. Aim for a cream that has at least 36% fat content, as this will yield a richer sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp. When adding the cream to the skillet, reduce the heat to low; this prevents the sauce from boiling and ensures a smooth consistency without curdling. Stirring continuously is key; it helps the sauce to remain glossy and luscious without any lumps.

As you incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, take your time to mix it in gradually. This slow incorporation allows the cheese to melt evenly, creating a harmonious blend with the cream. If your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water can help reach the desired consistency—creamy but not overly heavy. A little experimenting here allows you to achieve the perfect creamy texture that will coat the pasta beautifully without making it feel heavy on the palate.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces fettuccine or your pasta of choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp and Broccoli

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté Shrimp and Broccoli

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine the Dish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together to combine and cook for another minute.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delightful Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process. Either addition can enhance the dish beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to switch up the vegetables according to your preference or what's in season. Asparagus or peas can be delightful replacements for broccoli, offering a different flavor and texture profile. If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream; however, this may yield a thinner sauce. For those seeking a dairy-free version, coconut cream is a fantastic alternative that adds a unique flavor, though it may alter the classic taste slightly.

If you're looking to spice it up, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of lemon juice can brighten the entire dish. For protein variations, scallops or chicken can be excellent substitutes for shrimp, just ensure you adjust the cooking times accordingly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create your version that resonates with your tastes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the pasta from soaking up all the sauce, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately if you plan to make it ahead. When reheating, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet to revive the creamy texture without creating dryness; gently warm over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

If you find that the sauce has thickened too much after refrigeration, a little bit of heavy cream or broth will help restore its creamy quality. I recommend consuming the pasta within a few days for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, try tossing them into a fresh salad the next day; the cream sauce can add an unexpected twist to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a milk and butter mixture for a lighter version.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Asparagus, bell peppers, or snap peas can be great additions to this dish.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.