Craving a creamy, comforting, yet healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo Fettuccine recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights. It's a delicious blend of tender shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking. This quick dinner idea is also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water to blanch. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked fettuccine, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to combine until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- Substitute chicken or scallops for the shrimp.
- Add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo Fettuccine recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to customize to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes, offering a healthy and delicious option for quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be truly satisfying.