1-Step 1: Prepare the pasta water and ingredients Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While you wait, chop the broccoli into small florets, mince the garlic, and measure out the sauce ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if needed, then pat them dry with paper towels so they sear better in the pan.

2-Step 2: Cook the pasta and broccoli Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook it until just al dente, following the package timing as a guide. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This softens the broccoli just enough while keeping a fresh, bright color and a little bite. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This is important because it helps thin the sauce later without watering it down too much. Then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.

3-Step 3: Cook the shrimp Place a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Season the shrimp with the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you are using it. Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook the shrimp. Since they will go back into the sauce later, they only need a quick sauté. Transfer them to a plate once cooked.

4-Step 4: Build the creamy Alfredo sauce In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well so it forms a paste with the butter. This step helps the sauce thicken nicely. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure the mixture stays smooth. Then add the cream cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Keep the heat at medium and let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

5-Step 5: Combine everything Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp back into the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated and the shrimp and broccoli are evenly distributed. Stir in the parmesan cheese and let it melt briefly. If the sauce seems heavy, add a little more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the texture you like. The sauce should look creamy and glossy, not dry or sticky.

6-Step 6: Serve right away Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and add a little extra parmesan on top if you like. Serve immediately while it is warm and creamy. This dish tastes best fresh, when the sauce is silky and the broccoli still has a nice texture.