Few things speak the language of comfort and elegance quite like Shrimp Alfredo. This dish is the very definition of creamy pasta perfection, starring plump, juicy shrimp nestled in lush fettuccine and smothered in a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce. With its irresistible aromas and restaurant-worthy flair, Shrimp Alfredo is sure to make any dinner feel like a special occasion—whether it’s just a Tuesday or you’re entertaining friends. And the best part? It’s much easier to whip up at home than you might think.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Shrimp Alfredo lies in its simplicity—the right ingredients, perfectly balanced, come together for a dish that is bright, rich, and absolutely crave-worthy. Every single component has a role, from the silkiness of heavy cream to the briny sweetness of shrimp. Gather these handful of pantry and fresh staples for a meal that’s sure to wow!
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen both work, but make sure they’re plump for the best bite.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: Fettuccine’s wide ribbons soak up that Alfredo sauce like nothing else.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A quick sauté in olive oil gives your shrimp gorgeous color and adds subtle flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter forms the backbone of the Alfredo sauce, making it rich and silky.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings warmth and depth—use fresh for the best aroma.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Cream gives the sauce its signature luxurious texture and mouthfeel.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Go for freshly grated if you can—pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to amplify the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A bit of pepper balances the richness and ties everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat—add to taste!
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: This finishing touch brings freshness and gorgeous color to your plate.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the fettuccine and stir to keep those noodles loose and silky. You want to cook them until just al dente, usually about 10 minutes, so they stay tender but with a slight bite. Once perfect, drain the pasta and set it aside—but don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water, just in case your sauce needs loosening up later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While your pasta cooks, reach for your biggest skillet and warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for 1 to 2 minutes per side. You’ll see them turn pink and opaque—when that happens, they’re done! Overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep an eye out. Once cooked, scoop them out and set aside on a plate; you’ll add them back later.
Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce
In that same skillet (don’t rinse it—those leftover bits are pure flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the garlic and sauté for just about a minute, letting its aroma bloom and perfume your kitchen. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic really happens: reduce the heat, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer everything gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce slightly thickens and becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Time to bring it all home! Return those perfectly cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained fettuccine. Toss everything together, making sure each strand of pasta and every shrimp gets a glorious coating of sauce. Let it all warm through for another 2 minutes. If you find the sauce too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water until it reaches your perfect consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat, then shower the whole dish with a generous handful of fresh chopped parsley. This not only lifts the flavors but also makes the dish pop with vibrant color. Serve your Shrimp Alfredo immediately while it’s creamy and luscious—there’s nothing quite like enjoying it right from the pan!
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a flurry of chopped parsley are the classic touches that take your Shrimp Alfredo from great to unforgettable. For an extra fancy finish, a few cracks of black pepper or a sprinkle of lemon zest instantly wakes up every bite. If you’re feeling playful, add a few red pepper flakes for twinkle-in-the-eye heat.
Side Dishes
Shrimp Alfredo is rich and decadent, so pairing it with simple, vibrant sides works beautifully. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette provides balance and a refreshing crunch, while steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus add a welcome bite. A basket of warm, crusty bread is practically required for mopping up every last drop of sauce—it’s all about enjoying every morsel!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to make a weeknight special, consider plating Shrimp Alfredo in individual pasta bowls with a little nest of twirled fettuccine and a few extra shrimp right on top. For a family-style presentation, serve it in a big, shallow platter at the center of the table—let everyone scoop their own and pass the Parmesan. You could even serve single portions in toasted bread bowls or on a bed of sautéed spinach for a playful, modern spin.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer your Shrimp Alfredo to an airtight container as soon as it cools. The pasta will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days—though best enjoyed fresh, those creamy flavors are still wonderful the next day. Store the shrimp and pasta together so everything soaks up that glorious sauce.
Freezing
Freezing Shrimp Alfredo is possible, but there are a few caveats. The cream sauce can sometimes separate when thawed, so for the best results, freeze in individual portions and try to use within a month. When reheating, a gentle stir and a splash of cream can help bring everything back together.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your Shrimp Alfredo on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp tough and the sauce grainy, but if you must, use short bursts and stir often for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of fettuccine?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and soaks up creamy sauces wonderfully, you can use linguine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The heart of Shrimp Alfredo is the sauce and shrimp—mix it up with your favorite shapes!
How do I keep my Alfredo sauce from clumping?
For a smooth, velvety sauce, be sure to add the Parmesan cheese slowly over low heat, stirring constantly. Using freshly grated cheese (not pre-shredded) makes a huge difference, since it melts so much better. Also, don’t let the sauce boil, as this can cause separation.
Can I make Shrimp Alfredo without heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk (with a bit less-rich result), but you may need to thicken the sauce with a little extra Parmesan or a spoonful of cream cheese. For a lighter touch, try using part milk and part Greek yogurt, but keep the heat low so the sauce stays silky.
What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or steamed broccoli all work beautifully in Shrimp Alfredo. If you add them, toss them in just before combining everything with the sauce, so they retain their freshness and don’t overcook.
How do I make this dish gluten free?
Simply swap the fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many grocery stores carry great options made from rice, corn, or chickpeas that hold their shape well and work deliciously with creamy sauces. Everything else in Shrimp Alfredo is naturally gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Alfredo is a total crowd-pleaser—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor but easy enough to make on the busiest of weeknights. Give this recipe a try and get ready for lots of “wow, this is incredible!” from everyone at your table. Trust me, once you experience the magic of homemade Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent and creamy Shrimp Alfredo pasta dish that’s quick and easy to make. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Fettuccine: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink; set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, add cream, simmer, then add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Combine: Add shrimp and pasta to the sauce, toss to coat, and warm through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- Enhance flavor with a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
- Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added depth and nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
