1-First step: Cook the pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 8 ounces of medium pasta shells until tender, then drain them well. If you are using a different pasta shape, follow the package directions and aim for al dente so the noodles do not turn mushy once they are mixed with the sauce. Set the cooked pasta aside while you build the rest of the dish.

2-Second step: Steam the broccoli Place the 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water into a large skillet or sauté pan. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes tender-crisp. Drain off any remaining water and move the broccoli to a plate.

3-Third step: Cook the shrimp Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in the same pan over medium heat. Add the 1 pound shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them and pull them off the heat as soon as they are done. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl so they do not overcook while you make the sauce.

4-Fourth step: Start the Alfredo base Melt 3 tablespoons butter in the pan over medium heat. Stir in the 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, whisk in the 2 tablespoons flour and let it cook for 1 minute. This helps remove the raw flour taste and gives the sauce a smoother texture.

5-Fifth step: Add the milk and cheese Slowly pour in the 3 cups whole milk while whisking constantly. If you want a richer Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo, you can use half and half, or swap in 1 cup heavy cream with part of the milk for a thicker sauce. Keep whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, which usually takes 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, then season with 1 to 2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper.

6-Sixth step: Bring everything together Add the cooked pasta shells, broccoli, and shrimp back into the pan. Toss gently so every shell gets coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk. If it seems a little thin, let it simmer for another minute or two while stirring.

7-Final step: Serve and top Spoon the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo into bowls or onto plates and finish with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve it right away while the sauce is silky and warm. A little extra black pepper on top is nice too if you like a stronger savory finish.