Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together succulent shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and vibrant roasted broccoli. This meal is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the garlic butter shrimp, which adds a savory depth to the creamy sauce. Roasting the broccoli enhances its natural sweetness and adds a contrasting texture that complements the richness of the Alfredo perfectly.
Whether you’re trying to impress guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe delivers bold flavors and contrasting textures, making it a go-to meal that feels indulgent without a lot of hassle.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Shrimp is the protein star in this dish, providing a delicate seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Using large shrimp ensures a satisfying bite and quicker cooking time. - 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
Fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo dishes due to its width, which allows it to hold onto the rich sauce. Cooking it to al dente gives a nice bite that contrasts with the creaminess of the dish. - ½ cup unsalted butter
Butter adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Unsalted butter allows for better control of the overall saltiness in the dish. - 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is crucial for building flavor in this recipe, providing an aromatic base that enhances everything it touches. It becomes fragrant when sautéed, infusing the melted butter with its essence. - 1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is responsible for the creamy texture of Alfredo sauce. Its high fat content ensures a rich and velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp. - 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also thickens the sauce as it melts. Opting for fresh cheese rather than pre-grated enhances taste and texture. - 2 cups broccoli florets
Broccoli adds a nutritious component and a pop of color to the dish. Roasting it brings out its natural sweetness and provides a delightful crunch that balances the meal's richness. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish to enhance all the flavors. Proper seasoning ensures that each component shines and contributes to a harmonious overall taste. - Red pepper flakes, optional
Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat that can elevate the dish, offering contrast to the richness of the sauce. This optional ingredient allows for a customizable level of spice.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted broccoli. An adequately heated oven ensures even cooking and caramelization, enhancing the flavor and texture of the broccoli florets.
Step 2: Toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Coating the broccoli in olive oil allows for even roasting and prevents it from becoming dry. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances its natural flavors while adding a touch of contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
Roasting the broccoli develops a rich, caramelized flavor and a pleasant texture. Spread it out in a single layer to ensure even roasting and avoid steaming, which can occur if the florets are crowded.
Step 4: While the broccoli is roasting, cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted water until al dente.
Salting the pasta water is essential, as it enhances the flavor of the fettuccine. Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures that it retains some firmness, allowing it to hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
Step 5: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Starting with a medium heat allows for even melting of the butter without burning. This will form the base for your garlic-infused sauce, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Sautéing the garlic brings out its natural oils, intensifying its flavor and aroma. This step is crucial; keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning, as it can turn bitter if overcooked.
Step 7: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Bringing the cream to a simmer helps to thicken it slightly, providing the perfect consistency for the Alfredo sauce. Stirring frequently prevents it from scalding on the bottom of the skillet.
Step 8: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Adding parmesan while the sauce is warm ensures it melts evenly, creating a creamy consistency. Stir well to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, luxurious sauce.
Step 9: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste.
Seasoning at this stage allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Taste as you go to ensure the balance is just right, as the intensity of flavors can vary with fresh ingredients.
Step 10: Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat.
Combining the pasta and shrimp with the sauce allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring each bite is deliciously coated. This step requires gentle tossing to avoid breaking the shrimp.
Step 11: Serve immediately with roasted broccoli on the side.
Serving the dish immediately ensures that the creamy sauce remains velvety and doesn't thicken too much as it cools. The contrast of the roasted broccoli enhances the overall dining experience.
Perfectly Roasted Broccoli: A Delicious Pairing
Roasting broccoli not only adds a delightful crunch but also intensifies its natural sweetness, creating a perfect contrast with the creamy Alfredo sauce. The roasting process caramelizes the florets, resulting in a rich flavor that enhances the dish. Tossing the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting ensures it gets beautifully browned while preserving its nutrients.
Mastering the Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and Flavorful
The key to an exceptional Alfredo sauce lies in the balance of rich butter and cream combined with freshly grated parmesan. This combination not only provides a lush, creamy mouthfeel but also a depth of flavor that makes the dish memorable. Careful attention to detail during preparation, like avoiding boiling the cream, will yield a sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and shrimp.
Adjusting Flavor Profiles: Spice It Up or Keep It Mild
While this Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo offers a delightful blend of flavors, adjusting the spices can personalize your dining experience. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a mild heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements. For those who prefer a milder dish, simply omit the flakes or serve them on the side so everyone can tailor their own plate.
FAQs
What if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, incorporate a little pasta water or additional cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir gently over low heat until combined.
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed, and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the sauce.
What can I do if the garlic flavor is too strong?
If the garlic flavor is too potent, balance it by adding more cream or cheese to mellow the taste. This adjustment will make the sauce richer without overshadowing other flavors.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach, which can add color, nutrition, and flavor. Sauté or roast them similarly to the broccoli for best results.
What happens if I overcook the shrimp?
Overcooked shrimp will become rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque; they continue to cook a bit after being removed from the heat.
Can I make this dish without cream?
While cream is key for that traditional Alfredo texture, you can replace it with a mixture of milk and a little flour for a lighter option. This will yield a thinner sauce but still enjoyable.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli is a fantastic dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it a favorite among many home cooks. Each component enhances the overall experience, offering a delicious meal that can be made in less than an hour.
Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe celebrates the beauty of combining fresh seafood, creamy pasta, and roasted vegetables. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make this dish your own.
Recipe Card
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
- While the broccoli is roasting, cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted water until al dente.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Serve immediately with roasted broccoli on the side.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
