If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, rich Alfredo sauce envelops perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta and tender, juicy shrimp to create a comforting meal that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Each bite offers a delightful balance of buttery sauce, savory Parmesan, and just the right touch of garlic, making this recipe a truly unforgettable seafood fettuccine experience that’s perfect for weekday dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a vital role in creating the sumptuous flavors and luscious textures that make this dish so irresistible. From the creamy heavy cream to the fresh parsley garnish, these essentials come together effortlessly to deliver maximum taste with minimal fuss.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The ideal pasta shape for holding creamy Alfredo sauce in every delicious forkful.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Provides tender, juicy seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté shrimp, adding a touch of richness without overpowering the dish.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce and enhances the creaminess.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with fragrant, savory depth.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The star of the sauce, adding richness and smooth texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, nutty flavor that defines Alfredo.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming spice to complement the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a mild kick of heat in their dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish): Brightens the look and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning just firm enough to hold up but tender enough to soak up the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be combined with your luscious Alfredo sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl up beautifully. Removing them promptly keeps the shrimp tender and juicy, avoiding any hint of rubberiness. Set the shrimp aside after cooking so they don’t overcook later.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it becomes aromatic—not browned, just fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens nicely, about 3–4 minutes; this silky sauce is where all the magic happens.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that each strand of noodle and every shrimp is well-coated in that dreamy, creamy sauce. Let it all heat together for a couple of minutes to marry the flavors before serving.
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
The classic garnish for this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is freshly chopped parsley, which adds a lively pop of green and a subtle herbal freshness to complement the richness. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. A twist of lemon zest can also brighten the dish beautifully if you want a citrusy note.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let the pasta shine. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus spears can offer a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another fabulous option, perfect for mopping up the leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in individual shallow bowls and garnish each with chopped parsley and a lemon wedge. You could also plate the pasta in a neat nest and arrange shrimp artfully on top, making it feel restaurant-worthy. For gatherings, a large serving platter with parsley sprinkled across creates a welcoming, shareable vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Shrimp Alfredo Recipe leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
Freezing Shrimp Alfredo is not ideal because the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy. However, if necessary, freeze in a tightly sealed container and thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to restore creaminess. You can add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can unevenly heat the sauce and dry out the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect how well they sauté and the overall texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and dairy-free margarine, and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms are great options that add color, texture, and nutrition to the dish without overwhelming the classic flavors.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds only a subtle, warming heat that complements the creaminess nicely without overpowering the dish. You can always leave it out or reduce it based on your preference.
What type of cheese works best in Alfredo sauce?
Real Parmesan cheese is the traditional and best choice because it melts smoothly and has a sharp, nutty flavor that defines the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect sauce texture.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together with ease, making it a fantastic go-to for a cozy night in or when you want to impress without stress. The balance of creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a meal that’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will be bookmarked for all your comfort food cravings.
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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
Description
This Shrimp Alfredo recipe offers a rich and creamy Italian-American classic, featuring tender shrimp and fettuccine pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan and garlic-heavy cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner, it combines the flavors of succulent seafood with a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, leaving any oil and bits in the pan.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and shrimp are well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Optionally, add extra Parmesan cheese on top for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce variant.
- Add steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
