Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta

Name: Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1 shallot finely chopped; 1 large head broccoli cut into florets; juice and zest of 1 lemon; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

By:

Sarah

Published:

April 1, 2026

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Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly combines succulent shrimp with tender broccoli, all enveloped in a coating of zesty lemon and savory parmesan. This recipe balances richness with freshness, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re sharing with family or hosting friends for dinner. The contrasting textures of the al dente penne and the crisp-tender broccoli create a satisfying mouthfeel that will have everyone going back for seconds.

I first stumbled upon this dish on a busy weeknight when I was craving something quick yet delicious. The vibrant colors of the pasta, shrimp, and broccoli inspired me as I quickly gathered my ingredients. It turned out to be a huge hit, and since then, it’s become a staple in my home. Packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta is not only easy to prepare but is also budget-friendly and perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will earn a spot on your regular meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Dinner’s ready in 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: A vibrant mix of zesty lemon, garlic, and fragrant herbs elevates every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful presentation of shrimp and broccoli on pasta looks impressive on any plate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or even meal prep for the week.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or to switch up the protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 ounces penne pasta: This shape holds the sauce and pairs beautifully with the shrimp. You can substitute with any short pasta like farfalle or fusilli.
2 tablespoons olive oil: A staple in cooking, it helps sauté the shrimp and adds a rich flavor. You could use avocado oil if preferred.
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp brings a lovely sweetness. If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp works great too—just ensure they’re thawed.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This fragrant herb blend elevates the shrimp’s flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme will do.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a nice kick; adjust based on your spice level comfort.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and enhances the dish’s flavor.
1 shallot, finely chopped: Provides mild sweetness and depth; you can replace it with a small onion in a pinch.
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets: This adds a pop of color and is packed with nutrients. Feel free to use frozen broccoli florets if that’s more convenient.
Juice and zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish and complements the shrimp flawlessly; use fresh for the best flavor.
¼ cup parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan will add creaminess and umami. You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish; it adds a fresh touch. Chives or basil can be substituted as well.

How to Make Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta

Cook the Penne and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the 8 ounces of penne pasta according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the rest.
Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the 1 pound of raw shrimp dry and toss with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This simple seasoning adds a burst of flavor that’s essential for the dish.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer, allowing them to sear without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they are pink and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained penne and broccoli back to the skillet. Pour in the juice of 1 lemon and its zest, followed by the ¼ cup parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and has a glossy finish.
Finish with Shrimp and Parsley: Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to combine with the pasta and broccoli. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving for that extra touch of freshness.

Storing & Reheating

To store your shrimp and broccoli pasta, let it cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally. The flavor may intensify, but the texture might change slightly; a splash more lemon juice can help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure your shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry to help achieve that perfect sear.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm to the touch when cooked through.
Reserve that pasta water! It can help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully.
Feel free to add some spice with red pepper flakes for a kick.
Experiment with different vegetables to keep this dish fresh—zucchini or asparagus would also work wonderfully.
If you’re making this dish ahead, consider cooking the pasta and shrimp separately before combining them just before serving.

Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta is not just a delicious weeknight dinner; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity. This dish is all about balance—tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and the crunch of fresh broccoli, all coming together to delight your palate. Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the flavor to suit your taste. Enjoy every mouthful of this delightful dish and make it your own!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp properly before cooking for even cooking and better texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is fantastic due to its shape and ability to hold sauce, but feel free to use any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle according to your preference.

How do I make this shrimp and broccoli pasta gluten-free?

You can easily substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free version made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just ensure the other ingredients you use are gluten-free too.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately (like the pasta and shrimp) and mix them when ready to serve to keep everything in great texture!