There’s something extraordinarily satisfying about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. That’s exactly what you’ll find with this Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp—a recipe that effortlessly balances the rich flavors of buttery shrimp and creamy sauce with the fresh zing of bright lemon. I was inspired to craft this dish after a long day when nothing felt better than a hearty, home-cooked meal that wouldn’t take all night to prepare.
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter as you whip this together in just 30 minutes. With only eight simple ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing family dinner that’s perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of succulence and crunch, thanks to the vibrant broccoli and tender shrimp. Get ready to savor a meal that’s not only quick and easy but brings a touch of elegance to your table!
Why will you love Creamy Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Bright Flavor: The vibrant combination of fresh lemon and buttery shrimp creates a refreshing meal that dances on your palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to win over both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike, making it a hit at any dinner table.
Nutritious Twist: With broccoli added to the mix, you’re not only enjoying a comforting meal but also boosting its nutritional value.
Minimal Ingredients: You need just eight simple ingredients to bring this delicious dish to life, ensuring it’s not overly complicated for home cooks.
Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Pasta – Use your favorite pasta shape, such as rigatoni, for a hearty base.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for easy cooking without the fuss.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – This adds a rich flavor; melt it in stages for the best results.
• Whole Fat Milk – A creamy base for the sauce—substitute with half and half or heavy cream for extra richness.
• Lemon Zest – A must for aromatic flavor; be careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish perfectly; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
For the Veggies
• Onion (diced) – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dish; a quarter of a small onion is all you need.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances the aromatics—3-4 cloves will bring richness to your sauce.
• Broccoli Florets – Provides nutrition and color; using pre-chopped pieces ensures even cooking.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; season to taste as you cook.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta shape and cook until very al dente—about 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining!
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Sauté Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt ½ tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cook the shrimp until they are opaque, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side. Once done, transfer them to a plate.
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Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add lemon zest and the diced onion; sauté until the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the milk, along with the reserved pasta water, and seasonings. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Now, add the broccoli florets and the cooked pasta, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and the broccoli is tender—this will take about 3-4 minutes.
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Finish Dish: Remove the lemon zest, then stir in the shrimp and fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving it immediately, ensuring it’s flavorful!
Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon slices and grated parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that will make this dish uniquely yours!
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Protein Swap: Try using scallops or chicken instead of shrimp for a delightful variation that changes the flavor profile completely.
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Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without losing any of the creamy goodness.
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Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten the dish with an extra layer of flavor and a touch of freshness.
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Vegetable Medley: Add in other vegetables like spinach or asparagus for a vibrant addition to the dish, boosting both color and nutrition.
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Spice It Up: For a kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce, making it perfect for those who crave a bit of heat.
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Lemony Twist: Increase the lemon juice and zest to intensify the citrus flavor, creating an even more refreshing experience.
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Nutty Finish: Top the dish with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of richness.
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Creamy Variation: If you love a thicker sauce, consider mixing in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone for a luxurious texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
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Perfect Pasta: Ensure your pasta is very al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
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Broccoli Technique: Add broccoli to the sauce instead of boiling it. This keeps the florets tender yet crisp, enhancing the dish’s texture.
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Quality Shrimp: Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp; it often lacks flavor and can become rubbery. Opt for fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best taste.
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Milk Choices: If you’re looking for a way to make the sauce extra rich, consider substituting whole fat milk with half and half or heavy cream—but note this will change the calorie count.
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Adjusting Flavor: Taste your sauce before serving! Add extra lemon juice or seasoning to ensure your Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp bursts with flavor.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with sides that complement its luscious flavors and textures.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery notes of garlic bread are a perfect match, allowing you to scoop up creamy sauce with ease.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp counterpoint to the rich pasta, balancing the flavors beautifully.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a sophisticated touch and a vibrant green color while maintaining a light, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly.
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Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after a hearty meal, echoing the dish’s bright citrus notes for a cohesive dining experience.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy pasta, turning your meal into a delightful feast.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the seafood elements in the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable with its fruity notes.
Indulge in these pairings for a memorable dining experience that feels both comforting and elegant!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp are ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (without the shrimp and broccoli) one day ahead; just reheat it gently while adding the broccoli for texture. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything in the skillet for a quick finish. This means you can enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This dish can be enjoyed again, but it’s best fresh!
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Leftover Use: If you have any leftover cooked shrimp, consider tossing them into salads or tacos for a quick lunch option!
Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for this recipe?
You can use fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too! Just remember to add it at the same time as the cream to ensure it cooks properly.
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To retain the creamy texture, I recommend reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If it seems a bit thick, adding a splash of milk can help restore the creaminess.
What are some common mistakes to avoid while making this pasta?
One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Be sure to cook it until it’s very al dente as it will continue to cook when added to the sauce. Another tip is to avoid using pre-cooked shrimp, which can turn rubbery and lose flavor. Always go for fresh or properly frozen shrimp for the best results!
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, spinach, or even peas can be great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on their texture so they complement the dish without becoming mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for those with seafood allergies?
If you have seafood allergies, simply substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or sautéed tofu for a delicious variation. The creamy lemon sauce will still shine through and make for a delightful meal!
Creamy Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until very al dente, about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt ½ tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cook the shrimp until opaque, about 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add lemon zest and diced onion; sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the milk and reserved pasta water, season, and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in broccoli and cooked pasta, stirring until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove lemon zest, stir in shrimp and fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.