Craving a creamy, comforting, yet healthy meal that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Then look no further! This Shrimp Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is your answer. It's a delicious fusion of classic Alfredo sauce's richness with the lightness of shrimp and broccoli, making it a perfect quick dinner idea or a satisfying healthy meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head of 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: Prepare the Broccoli and Shrimp
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Add the fettuccine to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked shrimp to the Alfredo sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Stir in the cooked broccoli and drained fettuccine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. This delicious dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a much richer flavor than pre-grated.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
- Add some protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage to the dish.
Variations:
- Lemon Alfredo: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the Alfredo sauce for a bright and zesty twist.
- Creamy Tomato Alfredo: Stir in a 1/2 cup of tomato puree to the sauce for a slightly pinker hue and a hint of tomato flavor.
- Veggie Alfredo: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini along with the broccoli.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
This Shrimp Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and a surefire way to elevate your homemade cooking game. Enjoy!