Penne with Shrimp and Broccoli in Cream Sauce
Penne with Shrimp and Broccoli in Cream Sauce is a popular Italian-American pasta dish featuring tube-shaped penne pasta tossed with succulent shrimp and fresh broccoli florets in a rich, velvety cream-based sauce, often enhanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of white wine. It's a comforting, hearty meal that combines seafood, vegetables, and pasta for a balanced and flavorful experience.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the pasta and fat from the cream sauce, while the shrimp provides a good source of lean protein. Key nutrients include calcium from the cheese, vitamin C and fiber from the broccoli, and omega-3 fatty acids from the shrimp, with a typical serving ranging from 600 to 800 calories depending on portion size and sauce richness.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg RAE |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Selenium | 30 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish reflects the Italian-American tradition of adapting classic Italian pasta recipes with creamy, indulgent sauces, making it a staple in many family-friendly restaurants. Nutritionally, the combination of shrimp and broccoli offers a balance of protein and antioxidants, making it a more nutrient-dense option compared to many other creamy pasta dishes.
