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Shrimp Broccoli Pasta Recipe (Garlicky, Balanced, and Weeknight-Ready)
Isla Marie

Shrimp Broccoli Pasta Recipe

A quick, garlic-forward pasta with tender shrimp and crisp broccoli in a light lemon butter sauce. Balanced, savory, and ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta linguine, spaghetti, or penne
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1. Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2. Season the Shrimp
  1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 3. Sear the Shrimp
  1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 4. Build the Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 5. Combine Pasta and Broccoli
  1. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water and lemon juice to loosen the sauce.
Step 6. Finish the Dish
  1. Return shrimp to the skillet. Add Parmesan and toss gently until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7. Serve
  1. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

  • Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery.
  • Reserve pasta water to help create a light, cohesive sauce.
  • Add lemon at the end for brightness.
  • Best served fresh for optimal texture.