Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or fettuccine; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of succulent shrimp and tender broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, always leaves everyone wanting more. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients really enhances the flavor profile, and the addition of garlic and Parmesan adds just the right amount of depth. It's a dish that balances indulgence and health, ensuring no one feels guilty for going back for seconds!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:10:36.774Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. Cooking the shrimp until they’re just tender prevents them from becoming rubbery, and adding the broccoli in the last few minutes ensures it stays vibrant and crisp.

This pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. I’ve experimented with different herbs, but my favorite addition is a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right before serving for that little kick. It’s a dish I've come to adore, and I know you will too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats each pasta strand
Succulent shrimp paired with crunchy broccoli for texture
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Key Techniques for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial for a dish like this, where the sauce clings to each strand. Ensure you use a generous amount of salted water, which not only prevents sticking but also enhances the pasta’s flavor. For spaghetti or fettuccine, bring the water to a rolling boil, then add the pasta. Stir occasionally and taste it a minute before the package instructions indicate to achieve that perfect al dente bite.

Once cooked, be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can help adjust the consistency of your cream sauce, making it silkier and helping it adhere better to the pasta. If your sauce seems too thick at any point, a splash of this reserved water can work wonders.

Choosing and Cooking Broccoli

Fresh broccoli is key to adding both color and crunch to your dish. Look for florets that are bright green and tightly packed, as they signify freshness. When sautéing, it’s best to keep broccoli slightly undercooked since it will continue to soften as it absorbs the cream sauce. Aim for a vibrant green color and a tender-crisp texture, which typically takes about 4 minutes of cooking in the skillet. If using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding to maintain the best texture.

Adding garlic enhances the flavor, but be cautious not to burn it. As soon as the garlic becomes fragrant, which takes about 1-2 minutes, it’s time to add the cream. A burned garlic can impart a bitter taste that overshadows the delicate shrimp and creamy sauce. Keeping the heat at medium is key—too high and the garlic may scorch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, swap the spaghetti or fettuccine for gluten-free pasta. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with a combination of Greek yogurt and a bit of chicken broth. This change will still yield a creamy texture while cutting down on calories. Just be aware that the flavor profile will shift slightly, so tasting and adjusting seasonings will be important.

For added flair, consider garnishing your finished dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, cutting through the richness of the sauce while adding a refreshing element. Tobasco sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can deepen the umami if you’re looking to experiment with flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or fettuccine
250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Add the Broccoli and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and toss in the broccoli, cooking for about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat well in the sauce and let it heat through.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or parsley added at the end can brighten up the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta dish is ideal for meal prep since you can prepare the shrimp and broccoli ahead of time. Cook them both as directed, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet before adding the cream and pasta—a quick and easy way to have a delicious dinner ready in minutes.

For those considering freezing, it’s best to freeze just the shrimp and broccoli separately before adding them to the pasta, as creamy sauces do not freeze well. Once thawed, reheat gently on low heat to avoid curdling. This approach maintains the quality of the cream sauce when mixed fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the cream sauce becomes too thin, ensure you're cooking it long enough for it to thicken. Allow it to simmer gently without boiling, stirring regularly until you achieve that desired creamy consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thick, the reserved pasta water can help thin it out without compromising the richness.

Another issue could be ending up with rubbery shrimp, often caused by overcooking. Cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque—this should take about 2-3 minutes. If you accidentally overcook them, a sprinkle of lemon juice afterward can help hide the texture, and don’t forget to garnish to distract from any mistakes!

Variations and Addition Ideas

Feel free to adapt this pasta dish based on your preferences or what you have available. For added nutrition, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach. These vegetables complement the shrimp and broccoli beautifully while enhancing the color and nutrients in your meal.

If you're in the mood for a bit more protein, this recipe can also accommodate chicken or even firm tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Just add these ingredients to the same skillet in the step where shrimp would be sautéed, making sure they're cooked thoroughly before adding the cream sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for variation and extra color.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and combine before serving.