Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake Comfort Food Elevated

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook: Fancy a Grown-Up Mac and Cheese?

Ever get that craving for pure comfort? Oh my gosh, me too! This Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake is my answer.

It's like mac and cheese went to finishing school, kissed by the sea, and graduated with honors. This is comfort food elevated! The key flavor is rich, creamy Alfredo with the delicate sweetness of shrimp and earthy broccoli.

Brief Overview: A Touch of Italy Meets Home

Alfredo sauce has Italian roots. It's a simple sauce of butter, Parmesan, and cream. This Broccoli Bake version adds some protein and greens.

It is a medium difficulty recipe, and takes about 50 minutes. This Shrimp Alfredo serves six people.

Main Benefits: Goodness in Every Bite

Broccoli is packed with vitamins. It has a top health benefit. This is the perfect occasion for a weeknight meal or potluck.

What makes this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Casserole special? The perfect balance between healthy and indulgent makes this recipe so unique.

Ready to get started? Let's dive into the ingredients!

The Star Players: What You'll Need

Before we start the journey of creating this recipe, we need to gather our main ingredients. It is essential to confirm these quantities to avoid ruining the whole dish.

So let's pay attention! Creamy Shrimp Pasta Bake includes ingredients for: Shrimp, Broccoli, Alfredo Sauce, and the Bake itself.

For the Shrimp: Sizzling Seafood Goodness

We will need 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Olive oil (15ml), garlic powder (2.5ml), and red pepper flakes (1.25ml) are also necessary. Salt and pepper are essential too.

Broccoli: Roasted to Perfection

Broccoli is the other main actor, and we want to enhance its flavor by roasting. Grab a large head of broccoli (400g) and cut it.

You also need 30ml of olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning.

Decadent Alfredo: The Heart of the Dish

For the sauce, we will use 113g of unsalted butter. You also need 4 minced garlic cloves. To make it extra creamy, add 710ml of heavy cream.

Now we will enrich the sauce with 60g of grated Parmesan cheese. A pinch of ground nutmeg (1.25ml), salt, and pepper will complete the flavor profile of our Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo .

Building the Bake: Pasta and Cheese!

Finally, you need 225g of your favorite pasta. Penne or fettuccine work well in our Seafood Alfredo Casserole . Don't forget 100g of shredded mozzarella cheese.

It is the cherry on top of our baking.

Now that we know what we need, let's move on to putting it all together!.

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake Comfort Food Elevated Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:30 Mins

Servings:6 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (approximately 4 cups / 400g)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups (710ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces (225g) pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well), cooked according to package directions
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

• Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté in a skillet until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
• Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet until tender-crisp and lightly browned.
• Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Melt butter in a large skillet. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted broccoli, cooked shrimp, and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat. Pour mixture into a baking dish.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden brown.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving the Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:650

Fat:45g

Fiber:30g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this dreamy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake . Honestly, it’s easier than you think.

Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can! You know, I once tried making a soufflé. Disaster! This, on the other hand, is totally doable.

Gather Your Goodies: Main Ingredients

Let's start with the good stuff. Here are the measurements for our star ingredients for Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli .

• Shrimp: 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Get the good stuff! Look for firm shrimp without any fishy smell.
• Broccoli: 1 large head (about 4 cups / 400g) cut into florets. Fresh, bright green broccoli is your best bet here.
• Pasta: 8 ounces (225g) penne, fettuccine, or rotini. Whatever tickles your fancy.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) + 2 tablespoons (30ml).
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml).
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml). (Optional, but adds a nice kick!).
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113g).
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
• Heavy Cream: 3 cups (710ml).
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (60g) grated, plus extra. Go for freshly grated! Trust me, it makes a difference.
• Ground Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml).
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (100g) shredded.
• Salt & Pepper : To taste, always.

Seasoning Secrets for the Perfect Alfredo

This Broccoli Alfredo Bake wouldn't be complete without some key flavors.

Think garlic, nutmeg, and Parmesan – that's the Holy Trinity. Don't skimp. If you don't have nutmeg, a pinch of mace will do.

If you want a bit of a kick, like a Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo , add red pepper flakes to the shrimp or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.

A little goes a long way.

Gear Up: Essential Equipment

You don’t need a fancy kitchen for this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Casserole .

Just a few basics: a pot for pasta, a skillet, and a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. If you don’t have a baking dish that size, anything close will work.

No stress! If you don't have a skillet, a pot will do.

So, there you have it. Gather your ingredients, grab your gear, and let’s get cooking some delicious Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli !

Mastering the Baking Art: Your Guide to the Perfect Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Honestly, who doesn't love a good bake? They're the ultimate comfort food. Today, we are making a recipe for Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake .

This isn't your average bake; it's elevated! We are taking the classic Alfredo and kicking it up a notch with shrimp and broccoli.

Think of it as a sophisticated mac and cheese.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key

Before we even think about turning on the oven, let's talk prep. First, get your mise en place sorted. This means having everything measured, chopped, and ready to go.

It will save you so much time. Trust me, nothing's worse than realizing you're out of garlic halfway through making the Broccoli Alfredo Bake .

I learned that the hard way. Make sure to get 1 pound of shrimp peeled and deveined, 1 large head of broccoli cut into florets, measure out 1/2 cup butter, mince those 4 cloves of garlic, measure 3 cups of heavy cream, grate 1/2 cup of parmesan, and cook 8 ounces of pasta of your choice.

This can drastically improve the entire cooking experience and allow you to focus on the recipe

Pro Tip : Chop your broccoli while the pasta is cooking. Multitasking for the win!

Baking Bonanza: Step-by-Step

Alright, time to get cooking! Let’s jump straight into the heart of the Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli recipe.

1. Shrimp Time: Toss your shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté until pink.
2. Broccoli Bliss: Toss broccoli with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender-crisp.
3. Pasta Power: Cook pasta until al dente. Drain.
4. Alfredo Magic: Melt 1/2 cup butter, sauté minced garlic, then stir in 3 cups heavy cream. Simmer until thickened. Add 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
5. Combine Forces: Mix pasta, broccoli, shrimp, and Alfredo sauce.
6. Bake It: Pour into a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Cool down : Let it set for a few minutes before diving in.

Expert Baker: Pro Tips

Want to make this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Casserole even better? I've got you covered.

• Don't overcook the shrimp! Rubber shrimp? No thanks! Cook until just pink.
• Freshly grated Parmesan is a game-changer. It melts so much better.
• Making ahead? Assemble the bake, but don't bake it. Cover and refrigerate. Add 10- 15 minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Baked Alfredo with Shrimp and Vegetables ! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Notes for the Best Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake

Alright, let's chat about some important stuff before you dive into making this incredible Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake . Think of these as my little whispers of wisdom, gleaned from making this dish more times than I care to admit.

Honestly, sometimes things just happen in the kitchen, and you learn from them.

Serving Up Some Deliciousness

Plating and Presentation Ideas : This is comfort food, but we can still make it look fancy! A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders.

Oh my gosh, I almost forgot! A drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving is a game changer.

I even sometimes add a lemon wedge on the side for a bright, fresh squeeze.

Complementary Sides or Beverages : Garlic bread is a no-brainer, right? A crisp green salad cuts through the richness of the Broccoli Bake .

For drinks, a light white wine or even a sparkling water with a slice of lemon works perfectly.

Smart Storage Strategies

Refrigeration Guidelines : Leftovers will happily live in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they're in an airtight container. Honestly, I think it tastes even better the next day!

Freezing Options : While you can freeze it, I wouldn't recommend it. The sauce might separate a bit upon thawing.

But hey, if you're in a pinch, go for it! Just be prepared for a slightly different texture.

Reheating Instructions : The microwave is your friend here, but for the best result, reheat it in the oven. Just pop it in a baking dish covered with foil at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.

Let's Get Creative!

Dietary Adaptations : Need a Gluten-Free version? Easy peasy! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free kind.

Want to cut down on the calories? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps : In the fall, roasted butternut squash would be amazing in this Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo . In the spring, some asparagus would be lovely.

Honestly, this recipe is super adaptable!

Nutrition Made Easy

Simplified Nutrition Information : Okay, so each serving is roughly 650 calories . You also get about 35g of protein , 45g of fat , and 30g of carbohydrates .

Key Health Benefits : This Seafood Alfredo Casserole is packed with protein from the Shrimp Alfredo and fiber from the Broccoli . It's a balanced meal that's satisfying and delicious.

So there you have it. With these tips, you're well on your way to making the most amazing Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Bake .

Go on, give it a try! You got this! This Easy Shrimp Alfredo Broccoli Casserole will become your next family favourite!