Easy Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta (Print Version)

Creamy shrimp and broccoli pasta is a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich, savory cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ Hearty Pasta Foundation

01 - 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta

→ Ocean & Garden Stars

02 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
03 - 4 cups broccoli florets (from 1 large head)

→ Velvety Cream Sauce

04 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
07 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Aromatic Boosters & Finishers

08 - 1 tbsp olive oil
09 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1/2 lemon, juiced
11 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste
13 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While it heats, peel and devein 1 lb large shrimp, removing tails. Chop 4 cups broccoli florets and mince 4 cloves garlic. This careful preparation sets up your Easy Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta for success.
02 - Add 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the 4 cups broccoli florets to the pasta water. Drain well, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
03 - In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the prepared 1 lb large shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp unsalted butter to the skillet. Sauté 4 cloves minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth for your Easy Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta.
05 - Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
06 - Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Squeeze in the juice from 1/2 lemon. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish your Easy Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley before serving immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Substitution Tip: Feel free to swap linguine for penne or rotini, and broccoli for asparagus or spinach for a different twist.
02 - Don't Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Remove it from the pan as soon as it turns pink and opaque to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
03 - Make Ahead & Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
04 - Serving Suggestion: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread would complement this rich pasta dish beautifully.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 - Measuring cups and spoons
04 - Cutting board
05 - Chef's knife
06 - Colander
07 - Tongs

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 765 kcal
Total Fat: 36 g
Total Carbohydrate: 71 g
Protein: 40 g

Back