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: 200g spaghetti or fettuccine; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites

I absolutely love how this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta combines succulent shrimp with vibrant broccoli and a rich, creamy sauce. As someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors, I’ve found that the balance of garlic and Parmesan cheese in this dish elevates it to a whole new level. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes that makes it perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests. Taking just under 30 minutes to prepare, it’s an ideal option for a busy weeknight meal.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:41:37.246Z

I remember the first time I made Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta; the aroma wafting through my kitchen drew everyone in! I sautéed the shrimp to perfection, ensuring they remained juicy, and the broccoli turned a beautiful bright green with just the right bit of crunch. I learned that adding the broccoli at the right moment ensures it absorbs the creamy sauce while still retaining its vibrant color.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve a small amount of the pasta water when draining. This starchy water can be mixed in later to adjust the creaminess of the sauce. It’s a simple detail, but it makes all the difference in achieving that restaurant-quality finish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender shrimp complemented by crisp broccoli and a luscious creamy sauce
Quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for guests
Comfort food that's both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for any occasion

Mastering the Cream Sauce

Creating the perfect cream sauce is integral to achieving a rich flavor profile in this dish. When you pour in the heavy cream, ensure you bring it to a gentle simmer—not a full boil—as this helps to prevent curdling. Stirring in Parmesan cheese should be done gradually. If added too quickly, the cheese can clump rather than melt smoothly into the sauce. You want a glossy finish that clings beautifully to both the pasta and shrimp.

If you find that your sauce is thicker than you anticipated, don’t worry! The reserved pasta water is your best friend in rectifying this. Start by adding a couple of tablespoons at a time, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency. This process not only thins the sauce but also integrates the starch from the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

Choosing the Right Pasta

While spaghetti is a classic choice for cream pastas, using fettuccine can add a delightful twist. The wider noodles can hold more of the luscious sauce, maximizing each bite’s creamy satisfaction. For a gluten-free option, you could easily substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free spaghetti or fettuccine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as alternative pastas can vary widely in cooking times.

In terms of cooking pasta, timing plays a crucial role. Begin boiling your water before starting on the shrimp and broccoli. This multitasking approach ensures that the pasta is perfectly cooked and fresh when it’s time to combine all elements. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot sauce.

Versatile Ingredient Substitutions

This Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta is incredibly versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions to cater to different tastes or dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These alternatives provide a similar texture while adding a unique flavor profile. Additionally, nutritional yeast can substitute Parmesan cheese, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

If shrimp isn’t your preference, feel free to swap it out for chicken or even a selection of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian version. Simply sauté them as you would the shrimp, adjusting the cooking time depending on their thickness. You’ll still capture the essence of the creamy sauce, enhancing the new ingredients with texture and taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or fettuccine
300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

With everything ready, you're all set to prepare this delectable dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dinner:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring garlic doesn’t burn.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Now, enjoy your home-cooked masterpiece!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the finished pasta. It brightens the dish and enhances the taste of the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta with a light green salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cream sauce. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the overall dining experience. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, a handful of toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top can add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.

If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, serve it with a side of garlic bread or a selection of grilled vegetables. These pairings not only round out the meal but also add visual appeal, making it perfect for hosting during dinner parties or family gatherings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Should you find yourself with leftovers, storing this dish properly is essential for maintaining its creamy texture. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This way, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or a bit of reserved pasta water to help re-emulsify the sauce and bring it back to life without curdling.

It’s worth noting that the broccoli may lose some of its crispness during storage, so if you prefer it fresh, consider cooking a new batch just before serving. However, the flavors will meld beautifully overnight, creating a delightful dish that tastes almost better the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a creamy non-dairy alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or peas work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.