Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines succulent seafood with creamy richness and vibrant greens, then the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is absolutely for you. This recipe brings together perfectly cooked shrimp enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, tossed with tender broccoli florets and fettuccine, all smothered in velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level, boasting a balance of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is guaranteed to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo works together to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and colorful. From the butter that forms the base of the sauce to the fresh parsley adding a pop of green, these ingredients are simple yet essential for getting that perfect blend of rich and fresh.

• One pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Offers tender, slightly sweet seafood that cooks quickly for a juicy bite.
• One large head of broccoli, cut into florets: Adds a vibrant, crunchy contrast and a boost of freshness and color.
• Twelve ounces fettuccine pasta: The classic ribbon pasta that holds the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
• Six tablespoons butter: Creates the luxurious garlic butter base that coats every part of the dish.
• Six cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and that signature savory punch in the sauce.
• One cup heavy cream: Delivers the creamy, indulgent texture essential to a great Alfredo sauce.
• Half cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Offers nutty, sharp flavors that melt perfectly into the sauce.
• Quarter cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh, slightly peppery note to brighten up the dish.
• Half teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives just a hint of heat to balance the creaminess, if you like a bit of spice.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
• One lemon, juiced: Adds a subtle tangy brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cooking the fettuccine until just al dente, according to the package directions. Saving a bit of the pasta water before draining is a handy trick—it helps you loosen the sauce later for the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the pasta cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they’re just tender-crisp. This ensures they keep a lovely, vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Allow it to cook until fragrant but be vigilant so it doesn’t brown or burn—this step infuses the butter with that irresistible garlic flavor that’s key to the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque and pink. Season with salt, black pepper, and optionally, red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Once done, remove the shrimp to keep them juicy and tender.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter, bringing it gently to a simmer. Lower the heat, then stir in grated Parmesan until it melts smoothly. Finish with fresh lemon juice for a refreshing zing that lightens up the richness just perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce

Return the drained fettuccine and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time to achieve that silky, clingy sauce texture that makes every forkful unforgettable.

Step 7: Fold in Shrimp and Parsley

Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley into the creamy mixture, allowing everything to warm through so the flavors marry beautifully before serving.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Dish up straight away with a final sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley on top. The Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo tastes best fresh, with all its luscious creamy goodness on full display.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

Garnishes

While the dish is wonderful on its own, garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley adds an appealing visual touch and bursts of flavor. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate your presentation further.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a light green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty French bread is also perfect for dipping into that irresistible sauce, soaking up every creamy drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the alfredo in individual shallow bowls sprinkled with microgreens or edible flowers for a splash of color. You can also plate the shrimp on top with a lemon wedge on the side for an inviting, restaurant-style feel at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Because seafood and creamy sauces are best fresh, try to enjoy leftovers quickly to maintain flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing Alfredo sauces with shrimp is tricky since the cream can separate and the shrimp texture may degrade. If necessary, freeze only the cooked pasta and broccoli without the shrimp and sauce. Thaw and fresh-cook the shrimp when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave using short intervals, stirring frequently. Add a little extra cream or reserved pasta water if the sauce thickens too much to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their tender texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half mixed with a little butter, or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter when cooking for some extra heat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free fettuccine or pasta of your choice, and confirm the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free to keep this dish celiac-friendly.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce gently over low heat and stir constantly once you add the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling the cream and never overheat to keep a smooth, velvety sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and special about the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo that makes it a kitchen favorite. It’s an easy yet glorious way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss. If you love creamy, garlicky, and vibrant dishes that satisfy every craving, I promise this recipe will become a go-to for you too. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your top loved meals to share!