There’s something magical about a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a splash of elegance all on one plate. This Easy Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe does just that — it’s a delightful mix of tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and al dente penne tossed in a creamy, garlicky sauce.
Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress family and friends with a homemade meal, this recipe has got you covered. It’s straightforward, nourishing, and absolutely delicious.
Pull up a chair, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cozy kitchen favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta
Cooking should never be a chore, especially when your reward is a plate of pure comfort. This recipe is a shining example of that philosophy — quick, easy, and packed with flavors that make you feel right at home.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using fresh shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a creamy sauce means you don’t need complicated steps to get incredible results.
- Balanced Nutrition: Protein from shrimp, vitamins from broccoli, and energy from pasta come together in one well-rounded dish.
- Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids, flavorful enough for adults, and easy to adjust for dietary preferences.
- Versatile & Customizable: You can swap penne with your favorite pasta, use frozen broccoli in a pinch, or switch up the herbs for a twist.
- Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for spring and summer, comforting enough for cozy fall and winter nights.
What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?
Shrimp are the star protein here, so choosing the right type matters.
- Size: Medium to large shrimp work best because they’re easy to handle and have a satisfying bite. Look for 16/20 or 21/25 count per pound.
- Fresh or Frozen: Fresh shrimp bring the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be just as good if properly thawed.
- Peeled and Deveined: Saves time in prep and keeps the dish tidy.
- Wild-Caught vs Farmed: Wild-caught often have a cleaner flavor, but responsibly farmed shrimp can be a budget-friendly alternative.
Always buy shrimp that smell clean and fresh, not fishy.
Ingredients You Will Need in Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta
Before starting, gather these simple ingredients. You probably have most of them in your pantry already.
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prepare the Shrimp and Pasta
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot for your pasta. Cooking the penne to al dente — firm to the bite — is key. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the texture.
- Add the penne to boiling water.
- Cook for 9-11 minutes or according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, pat your shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly instead of steaming.
Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot:
- Add shrimp in a single layer, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and curl up.
- Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook shrimp in batches if needed to get a nice sear and prevent sogginess.
Sauté the Broccoli
In the same skillet:
- Add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Toss in broccoli florets.
- Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender. You want a slight crunch to balance the creamy pasta.
- If using frozen broccoli, cook a minute or two longer and ensure excess water evaporates.
Adding a pinch of salt here helps the broccoli stay vibrant and flavorful.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add butter or olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds — don’t let it burn.
Pour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring:
- Let the cream simmer gently, thickening slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt into a smooth sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If the sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little to loosen it up.
Combine Shrimp, Broccoli, and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet:
- Toss everything to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Add the drained penne pasta and mix gently but thoroughly.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, fresh finish.
Give it a taste — adjust salt, pepper, or cheese if needed.
Finish the Dish and Serve
Transfer your shrimp and broccoli penne pasta to serving bowls or a big platter:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.
- Offer additional Parmesan on the side.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, garlic bread, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
Options for Substitutions and Variations
No kitchen is complete without some improvisation. Feel free to:
- Swap penne for other pasta: fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work great.
- Use frozen shrimp or pre-cooked shrimp: Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Try different greens: Asparagus, spinach, or kale can replace or accompany broccoli.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Add herbs: Basil, thyme, or oregano complement the flavors beautifully.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
Even the simplest recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the shrimp: They become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor.
- Boiling pasta too long: Mushy pasta kills the dish’s texture.
- Burning the garlic: Bitter garlic can ruin the sauce.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta beautifully.
- Over-thickening the sauce: It should be creamy and coat the ingredients lightly, not puddle or clump.
Take your time, trust your senses, and taste along the way.
What to Serve With Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta?
This dish is hearty but benefits from light and fresh sides:
- Simple green salad: Mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette add brightness.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color.
- Light soup: A clear vegetable broth or tomato basil soup complements the flavors well.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers — though this dish rarely lasts long! — store them properly:
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best taste and safety.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.
Avoid freezing this pasta, as cream-based sauces can separate and turn grainy.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
A rough guide for a 4-serving portion:
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 30g (thanks to shrimp)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g (from broccoli and pasta)
- Sodium: 400mg (varies with salt added)
This balanced meal supports muscle repair and energy, while keeping things light and wholesome.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta
- Dry your shrimp well before cooking for the best sear.
- Use fresh garlic and add it last to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water — it’s your secret sauce helper.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan — cook shrimp in batches if needed.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish and cuts richness.
- Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
- Add herbs last to preserve their fragrance and color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well; just cook it a bit longer and drain any excess water.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but store the sauce and pasta separately if possible. Reheat gently and add fresh lemon juice before serving.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
Chicken breast, scallops, or even tofu can replace shrimp depending on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply swap penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
This Easy Shrimp and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both special and homey. From the tender shrimp and crisp broccoli to the creamy, garlicky sauce coating every bite, it’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy the warmth of the kitchen.
No matter your cooking experience, this recipe offers room to experiment and customize, making it a perfect go-to for any season or occasion. So next time you want a cozy, nourishing meal that’s easy to whip up, remember this shrimp and broccoli pasta — your new kitchen classic.
If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!
