1-First Step: Get everything ready Start by gathering all of your ingredients for this creamy spicy shrimp with broccoli recipe. If your shrimp are frozen, defrost them first and clean them if needed. This saves you from doing the awkward kitchen shuffle later while the pasta is boiling and the pan is heating at the same time. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the bowtie pasta. While that heats up, chop the broccoli into small florets if they are not already prepared. Mince the garlic and set out the Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, half and half, and spices so everything is ready to go.

2-Second Step: Cook the pasta and broccoli Add the 2 cups of bowtie pasta to the boiling water and cook until tender, following the package directions. Since this is a quick dinner, you want the pasta cooked just right, not mushy and moody. During the final 2 to 3 minutes of pasta cooking, drop in the 1.5 cups chopped broccoli florets so they can steam or blanch in the pasta water. This method keeps the broccoli bright green and saves you from washing another pot. If you like your broccoli softer, let it sit a little longer. If you prefer more bite, pull it out sooner. Both ways work nicely in creamy shrimp pasta, so go with your mood and your chewing preferences.

3-Third Step: Cook the shrimp Heat 0.5 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 25 medium raw shrimp and season them with 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder, 0.25 teaspoon parsley, and 0.125 teaspoon salt. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, which usually takes just a few minutes per side depending on their size. When the shrimp are almost done, add the 1 clove garlic that has been smashed and minced. Garlic burns fast, so adding it at the end gives you a better flavor and keeps it from turning bitter. If your shrimp are smaller or larger than medium, adjust the cook time slightly. The goal is juicy shrimp, not rubbery little tire pieces.

4-Fourth Step: Build the creamy sauce Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return the pasta to the pot. Add the 0.25 cup half and half, 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend. Stir everything together over low heat until the sauce thickens and coats the bowtie pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. This is especially helpful if the pasta sits a minute or two while you finish the shrimp. The sauce should feel silky and cling to the noodles without turning into glue. That sweet spot is what makes creamy spicy shrimp with broccoli so comforting.

5-Fifth Step: Combine everything Gently mix the shrimp and broccoli into the pasta. Stir carefully so the shrimp stay whole and the broccoli keeps some texture. Taste the pasta and add additional salt and pepper if needed. This is the part where the whole dish comes together and starts smelling like you know exactly what you are doing, even if the kitchen still looks like a tiny food tornado passed through. If you want a little more heat, you can add extra Cajun seasoning. If you want more creaminess, add a small splash of milk or a spoonful more half and half. The nice thing about this creamy shrimp recipe is that it is easy to adjust without wrecking the whole pan.

6-Final Step: Serve and finish with flair Spoon the creamy spicy shrimp with broccoli into bowls and top with a sprinkle of paprika and extra Parmesan cheese. The paprika adds a pretty finish and a little smoky warmth, while the cheese gives that final salty bite people love. Serve right away while the sauce is creamy and the shrimp are tender. This recipe makes 2 servings and works beautifully for a cozy dinner at home. If you want to stretch it, add a side salad, garlic bread, or extra steamed vegetables. The dish is rich enough to feel special, but still simple enough for a Tuesday night when your energy is running on fumes and maybe coffee.