Introduction
When time is of the essence, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli will become your go-to weeknight meal. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the bright flavor of roasted broccoli and succulent shrimp.
This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to produce gourmet results, while the added benefit of roasting broccoli provides a healthy and flavorful contrast to the creamy pasta. Whether you're feeding a family or just treating yourself, this meal is a triumph of ease and taste.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine
Fettuccine is a flat pasta that holds sauces well, making it ideal for creamy Alfredo. Its thickness ensures a substantial bite that complements the shrimp. - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Shrimp are the star of this dish, providing protein and a sweet ocean flavor. Their quick cooking time makes them convenient for a speedy dinner. - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Butter adds richness and depth to the sauce while also helping to sauté the shrimp. It enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. - 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic qualities that elevate the flavor of both the shrimp and the Alfredo sauce. It brings a warm, savory note that balances the creaminess. - 1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating a luscious, velvety Alfredo sauce. It thickens the sauce and contributes to its rich texture. - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste. It's important to use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
This blend of herbs adds complexity to the dish, boosting the flavor without overpowering it. It's a key component in flavoring the cream sauce. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the flavors in the dish. Adjusting to your personal taste ensures a well-rounded meal. - 2 cups broccoli florets
Broccoli adds a fresh and crunchy texture, making it a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta. Roasting enhances its flavor through caramelization. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil is used to drizzle over the broccoli before roasting, enhancing its taste and promoting browning, while also providing healthy fats.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial for getting the broccoli to roast properly. A hot oven ensures that the broccoli will become tender and slightly crispy, enhancing its flavor during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the broccoli: Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Tossing the broccoli in olive oil and seasoning ensures even cooking and flavor throughout. Spreading them out on the baking sheet allows for better air circulation, promoting a nice roast.
Step 3: Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the broccoli, creating caramelization that adds depth to its flavor. Keep an eye on the broccoli; you want it to be tender but still vibrant green.
Step 4: While the broccoli roasts, cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures it maintains a good texture that holds the sauce well. Reserving pasta water is crucial as it can help adjust the sauce's consistency later.
Step 5: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sautéing garlic in butter creates a flavorful base for the Alfredo sauce. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter, which will adversely affect the dish.
Step 6: Add the shrimp to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Cooking the shrimp quickly over medium heat ensures they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so watch closely for their color change.
Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Combining the cream and seasoning builds the Alfredo sauce's richness. It's essential to heat it gently to avoid curdling and to let flavors marry.
Step 8: Remove from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Adding cheese off the heat prevents it from becoming grainy. The cheese should melt into the cream, creating a cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 9: Combine the cooked fettuccine with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Combining the pasta with the sauce while adding reserved pasta water allows for better absorption and ensures the sauce evenly coats the noodles, enhancing the overall texture.
Step 10: Serve immediately with roasted broccoli on the side or mixed in, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.
Serving the dish immediately ensures the best texture and flavor. Mixing in the broccoli can provide added nutrition and balance to the creaminess of the Alfredo.
The Perfect Pasta Balance
Choosing the right pasta can make or break your dish. Fettuccine, with its broad, flat shape, provides a sturdy surface for the rich Alfredo sauce to cling to. This ensures that every bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making the pasta an integral part of the recipe.
Maximizing Shrimp Flavor
The secret to succulent shrimp lies in proper seasoning and cooking time. Seasoning the shrimp before cooking not only enhances their taste but also allows for a deeper flavor infusion. Moreover, a quick sauté ensures they cook through without becoming overdone, retaining their natural sweetness and tenderness.
Roasting Versus Steaming Broccoli
Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and adds a wonderful depth of flavor through caramelization. While steaming is a quicker method that preserves bright color and nutrients, roasting creates a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta. This texture difference elevates the dish, making each mouthful exciting.
FAQs
What should I do if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This helps incorporate the flavors while loosening the sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sauté properly and don't release excess water.
What can I do if my broccoli isn’t browning in the oven?
If your broccoli isn’t browning, try increasing the oven temperature slightly or using the broil setting for a few minutes at the end of the roasting time for that perfect caramelization.
How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?
To add spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce or adding sautéed jalapeños with the garlic. Be sure to adjust to your preferred heat level.
Can I swap fettuccine for a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works best for Alfredo, you can substitute with other pasta types like linguine or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
What if my garlic is burning in the pan?
If your garlic is burning, lower the heat immediately. Garlic can turn bitter quickly if overcooked, so it’s essential to monitor it closely, adding it to the pan later if needed.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli is a dish that stands out not just for its flavors but also for its simplicity. In a mere half hour, you can impress yourself and your loved ones with a meal that feels gourmet yet attainable.
The combination of the rich, creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and crisp broccoli creates a delightful balance in every bite. This recipe is a reminder that even on busy nights, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without extensive preparation.
Recipe Card
Honey Roasted Beets and Carrots for Vibrant Flavors
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the beets and carrots by cutting them into uniform sizes.
- In a large bowl, combine the beets and carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with herbs.
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.
