Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Cream Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti or fettuccine; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 250g broccoli florets; 200ml heavy cream; 100g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Red pepper flakes, optional (for spice)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Cooking

I love making Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta for a quick yet indulgent meal. The creamy sauce, combined with succulent shrimp and vibrant green broccoli, creates a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to whip up. I appreciate how this recipe allows for customization, whether you want extra garlic or a dash of hot sauce. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine, making it a delightful option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:20:45.313Z

After many attempts at perfecting a creamy pasta dish, I finally nailed my version of Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta. I experimented with different ratios of cream and cheese, ultimately finding the ideal balance that doesn't overpower the seafood or vegetables. What makes this dish truly special is sautéing the garlic until fragrant before adding the shrimp, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

One night, I decided to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, and it transformed the dish into a delightful spicy treat. This little tweak made all the difference and shows how easy it is to personalize this recipe, ensuring there's always something fresh in flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Juicy shrimp paired with vibrant broccoli for a burst of flavor
Quick and easy preparation for weeknight dinners or entertaining

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The creamy sauce in Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta is what brings the entire dish together. To achieve that perfect velvety texture, be sure to let the heavy cream simmer gently before adding the Parmesan. This allows the cream to reduce slightly, enhancing its flavor and richness. Keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the skillet, and look for a glossy finish before mixing in the cheese.

Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role in this recipe, not just for flavor but also for its ability to thicken the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melting experience. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can serve as an excellent substitute, though it has a stronger, saltier flavor.

Perfecting the Shrimp and Broccoli

When cooking the shrimp, aim for a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear without overcooking. The shrimp are done when they turn a vibrant pink and opaque, typically in around 3-4 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so watch carefully and remove them from the pan as soon as they are cooked through.

Broccoli should remain vibrant green and slightly tender-crisp after sautéing, which usually takes about 3 minutes. To enhance its flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right at the end. It brightens the dish and complements the richness of the cream sauce beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an added flavor dimension, try incorporating fresh herbs at the end, such as parsley or basil. These not only enhance the aroma but also provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also elevate the dish, balancing the richness with a hint of citrus.

If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or even mushrooms. They can be sautéed the same way as the broccoli, creating a hearty yet light pasta dish that’s still satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

400g spaghetti or fettuccine
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
250g broccoli florets
200ml heavy cream
100g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes, optional (for spice)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Add Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and sauté for another 3 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the cream.

Combine

Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Shrimp and Broccoli Cream Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, as it thickens upon cooling. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta, but be aware that cream-based sauces can change in texture once frozen and reheated. To do this, freeze the pasta without the sauce if possible, and store the cream sauce separately. This method helps preserve the quality when you decide to enjoy the dish again.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily adjustable if you're cooking for a crowd. Each ingredient can be scaled up proportionally. If you're doubling the pasta, consider reserving additional pasta water as the sauce may need more to maintain a creamy consistency when increased.

When scaling up, make sure to use a larger pot for boiling pasta and a bigger skillet for sautéing. Cooking the shrimp and vegetables in batches is recommended to avoid overcrowding, allowing them to brown properly and develop great flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired creaminess. Remember to mix thoroughly as you add the water, allowing it to blend seamlessly without diluting flavor.

If your shrimp release too much water and the dish becomes soupy, boost the heat to simmer off excess liquid before adding the pasta. Keeping a close watch during cooking can help prevent any overwhelming moisture, ensuring a well-balanced dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a non-dairy cream for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.