Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

This simple Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta is an easy dinner that's bursting with flavor. Juicy shrimp are combined with fresh broccoli, gluten free pasta, and a creamy lemon sauce. It's a delicious, protein packed dinner that's ready in 25 minutes.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients In Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
• How To Make The Best Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
• What is the best shrimp to buy for pasta?
• Recipe Variations
• Expert Tips
• Storing and Reheating Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Recipes
• Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

Shrimp and pasta are often a favorite pairing of mine. There's something about the leanness of the shrimp that pairs so well with hearty pasta and a creamy sauce.

For this recipe, I decided to add broccoli not only for color but also to make this dish more nutrient dense! It has shrimp for lean protein, gluten free pasta for healthy carbs, broccoli for fiber, and heavy cream for a healthy fat. These nutrients work in harmony to create, not only a delicious meal, but also one that will keep you full and satisfied.

In addition to being packed with nutrition, this healthy dinner is also out of this world delicious. The shrimp is perfectly seared with tender broccoli and al dente pasta which are all coated in a creamy sauce with a hint of lemon.

You can also check out my Cajun chicken and shrimp pasta or vegan tahini pasta if you want more pasta dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• You only need 10 simple ingredients
• It takes 25 minutes from start to finish
• This recipe is gluten free and I've listed a dairy free option
• The shrimp is perfectly cooked and pairs so well with the broccoli and creamy lemony sauce
• You can scale this recipe up or down depending on how many people you need to feed
• It's an easy, healthy dinner that both kids and adults love

Ingredients In Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

*full ingredients list and measurements can be found in the recipe card below*

• Shrimp: For this recipe I usually thaw peeled and deveined frozen shrimp. You can also use fresh if you prefer, just take the shells off and devein them.
• Pasta: I make mine with a gluten free pasta, but regular will work. For this recipe I recommend a pasta shape that will hold the cream sauce like rotini orecchiette.
• Broccoli: In the picture you'll see I used fresh broccoli, but frozen will also work
• Oil: Olive oil has a nice robust flavor that adds another element to this pasta dish, but avocado oil or even butter will work.
• Onion and Garlic: For added flavor, I like to add both onion and garlic!
• Spinach: I love adding spinach to pasta dishes because it wilts so beautifully in there and is a great added boost of Vitamin A and iron.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon adds a burst of flavor and helps to brighten up this shrimp and broccoli pasta
• Parmesan cheese: Use grated parmesan because it melts more evenly. You can also use vegan parmesan if needed
• Heavy cream: I make the creamy sauce with rich heavy cream. If you're dairy free, try substituting it with a dairy free alternative

How To Make The Best Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place shrimp into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes a side
3. Use tongs to remove the shrimp into a bowl and set aside. To the pan you just cooked the shrimp in add the diced onion and chopped broccoli.
4. Sautee the onion and broccoli for 4-5 minutes, then add in minced garlic and stir. Pour a little bit of water into the pan, cover with a lid and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking
5. Once the broccoli is tender, remove the lid and add in the lemon juice, spinach, salt, and pepper
6. When the spinach is wilted, add in the grated parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to let the sauce thicken a bit
7. Drain the pasta and fold it into the sauce until fully coated. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly, then serve and enjoy!

What is the best shrimp to buy for pasta?

I typically use frozen shrimp that's already been peeled and deveined because it's such a time saver. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

You can use fresh shrimp, but you'll probably have to prepare them yourself which can add time.

As far as size goes, I prefer to cook a small/medium sized shrimp so it's bite size and won't need to be cut after cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken and broccoli pasta: Substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken breast or even store-bought rotisserie chicken
• Side dish: Leave off the shrimp entirely and serve the broccoli pasta as a side dish to your favorite proteins
• Shrimp and broccoli spaghetti: Cook angel hair pasta instead of a shorter pasta for a more elegant presentation
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to turn up the heat
• Add some veggies: Sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes would be good. You could also dice up some roasted red peppers if you want!

Expert Tips

• To save time, thaw frozen shrimp that's already been prepared
• Use a pasta shape with ridges so it holds onto the creamy sauce
• Add extra veggies to boost the nutrient content of this healthy meal
• Substitute the shrimp with chicken breast if you're not a fan of seafood
• You can easily scale the recipe down to feed 2 people or double it if you're serving a crowd
• Cooked shrimp only stays good for 3 days, so this isn't a great recipe for meal prepping

Storing and Reheating Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

STORING: You can store any leftover shrimp and broccoli pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

REHEATING: To reheat, place your desired portion into a non-stick skillet with a lid, add a splash of cream and cook covered on low heat for 6-8 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Recipes

• Pan seared shrimp
• Cajun chicken and shrimp pasta
• Gluten free fried shrimp
• Tahini pasta
• Spicy chipotle chicken pasta
• Air fryer frozen broccoli
• Air fryer broccoli and cauliflower

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