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 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces of linguine or fettuccine pasta; 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort on a Plate

I love this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta because it's a delightful combination of tender shrimp and fresh broccoli enveloped in a creamy sauce. When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how simple and quickly the flavors melded together. The creamy texture paired with the slight crunch of broccoli creates a satisfying experience in every bite. I appreciate how versatile this recipe is; it can easily be adapted with different vegetables or proteins, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:25:36.795Z

When I first created this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta, I was looking for something that married comfort with elegance. The creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully, and I found that using fresh ingredients makes a world of difference. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs wonderfully with the slight bitterness of the broccoli, creating a balance that is utterly satisfying.

I also discovered that adding a touch of garlic and lemon can really elevate the dish, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming the palate. I make sure to cook the pasta just right—al dente is key! That way, every mouthful offers the perfect texture to enjoy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delicious blend of flavors and textures
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight
Creamy and satisfying without being heavy

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to the right texture is key to achieving the best result for this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta. When boiling the pasta, aim for 'al dente' – it should feel firm yet tender when bitten. To achieve this, start testing the pasta a minute or two before the package's instructed cooking time. Remember to reserve some pasta water; it often contains the starch necessary to help bind the sauce and pasta together later on.

Using linguine or fettuccine adds a great texture to the dish, as these flat noodles hold onto creamy sauces better than round spaghetti. If you need a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or quinoa, which behaves similarly when cooked but might require a slightly adjusted cooking time.

The Creamy Sauce Magic

The heavy cream forms the backbone of the sauce, providing that rich, silky mouthfeel. As it simmers, it reduces and thickens, making it perfect for coating the shrimp and noodles. When adding the cream, be sure to reduce the heat to prevent it from boiling, which can lead to a grainy texture. Stir the sauce gently to combine all elements seamlessly, creating that luxurious finish.

Incorporating fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, balancing the richness from the cream and cheese. If you want to switch things up, try adding a splash of white wine right after cooking the shrimp; let it reduce briefly before adding the cream for extra depth. Consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of parsley for a bold flavor twist.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delightful meal:

Ingredients

8 ounces of linguine or fettuccine pasta
1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons of olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Set aside.

Sauté Shrimp and Broccoli

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink. Add the broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat and pour in the cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the nutritional value.

Storing and Reheating Tips

For leftovers, store this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use low to medium heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and becoming rubbery. Adding a splash of milk or extra cream while reheating can help bring back the sauce's creamy consistency and prevent it from becoming too thick.

If you're looking to prepare this dish in advance, complete everything up to the combining step then store the elements separately. Keep the sauce and shrimp mixture in the fridge and cook the pasta fresh just before serving. This allows you to maintain that fresh texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the vegetable combinations in this recipe. Spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers can add unique flavors and textures. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, you might substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas, ensuring you adjust the cooking time accordingly for the protein you're using.

For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing it or toss in some fresh chopped chili peppers with the broccoli. This adds both heat and color, making the dish even more appealing. Another fun idea is to throw in sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine! Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrients.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta instead, and ensure that any added ingredients like chicken broth or cheese are certified gluten-free.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them just before serving to maintain texture.