1-First Step: Cook the pasta and broccoli Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of fusilli pasta, or use another pasta shape if that is what you have on hand. Cook until the pasta is al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite in the center. This matters because the pasta will keep cooking a little once it meets the sauce. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This quick blanching keeps the broccoli bright green and tender-crisp. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. That starchy water is very helpful later because it loosens the sauce without watering it down.

2-Second Step: Season and cook the shrimp While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry if needed. Season them with the 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and the optional 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Dry shrimp sear better, and seasoning them before cooking gives you better flavor in every bite. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque and curl into a gentle C shape. Try not to overcook them, since shrimp can turn rubbery quickly. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and toss them with the cooked pasta and broccoli so they stay warm.

3-Third Step: Build the creamy sauce Use the same pan, which already has good flavor in it, and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. You want the garlic to smell mellow and savory, not browned. Add the 1 tablespoon of flour and whisk it into the butter and garlic. Cook this mixture for 1 minute so the flour taste cooks out. Then slowly whisk in the 1 cup of milk. Pour slowly and whisk constantly so the sauce stays smooth. Add the 4 ounces of cream cheese and keep whisking until it melts into a creamy sauce. Let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens.

4-Fourth Step: Combine everything Add the pasta, broccoli, and shrimp back into the pan with the sauce. Stir gently but well so every piece gets coated. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches the texture you want. This is one of the most helpful tricks in any shrimp Alfredo pasta with broccoli recipe because it helps the sauce cling to the pasta instead of sitting in the pan. Turn the heat off before you add the parmesan. Fold in the 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, then taste and adjust if needed. If you want a little more savory flavor, you can add a pinch more parmesan right before serving.

5-Final Step: Serve right away Spoon the pasta into bowls while it is hot and creamy. Add more parmesan on top for serving if you like. The sauce is best when it is freshly made, and the shrimp stays tender when served right away. This is a great time to add a small sprinkle of black pepper or a bit more Italian seasoning if you enjoy a stronger herb flavor. If you want to make the meal feel more complete, serve it with a simple salad or crusty bread. For another dinner idea with a creamy comfort-food feel, take a look at baked cream cheese spaghetti.