Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
If you are searching for a crowd-pleaser that brings together rich, creamy flavors and tender seafood, this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is exactly what your dinner rotation needs. Imagine perfectly cooked fettuccine enveloped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, studded with succulent shrimp that have been seared to golden perfection. The balance of garlic, butter, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes creates a decadent dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured pasta. These essentials come together effortlessly, making the cooking process both enjoyable and rewarding.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The flat, wide noodles are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every forkful is full of flavor.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh shrimp add a delightful seafood sweetness and meaty texture that complements the rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the shrimp, it adds a subtle fruity aroma and prevents sticking.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This forms the silky base of the sauce, giving it that indulgent mouthfeel.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish with its warm, savory notes.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Provides the luscious creaminess that is the hallmark of Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, offering sharp, nutty flavors that deepen the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a subtle heat that balances the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors to perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who love a bit of spice in their Shrimp Alfredo Recipe.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh, green pop of color and a mild herbaceous contrast.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Cooking it just right is crucial because you want the pasta to hold up under the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once done, drain it thoroughly and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cooking the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque is the sweet spot to keep them juicy and tender. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside carefully to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet and melt the butter, letting it bubble gently to capture all that flavor. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant—the aroma alone is irresistible. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes so the cream thickens slightly, creating that signature velvety texture.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with black pepper and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Keep stirring until you achieve a smooth sauce that perfectly coats the back of a spoon. This step is where the dish really starts to shine, marrying all those rich flavors into a heavenly sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Gently toss everything together to ensure every noodle is generously coated and the shrimp is evenly distributed. This moment is pure magic, as the heat from the pan helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta and shrimp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a splash of vibrant color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the satisfying blend of creamy sauce and tender seafood.
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that not only adds eye-catching color but also provides an herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce. You can also try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dusting of extra Parmesan for some bright and salty highlights that elevate the dish further.
Side Dishes
Pair your Shrimp Alfredo Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. For a vegetable side, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus brings both color and nutrition to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider serving the Shrimp Alfredo in individual skillet dishes to keep it warm and visually appealing. You can also plate the pasta twirled into neat nests topped with shrimp artfully arranged, then finished with the garnish. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of crispy pancetta can add unexpected textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken upon cooling, so it might require gentle reheating with a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing
Because Alfredo sauce is dairy-based, freezing is generally not recommended as the texture can become grainy or separated once thawed. If you do freeze leftovers, be sure to thaw them slowly in the refrigerator and reheat gently with added cream to help re-emulsify the sauce.
Reheating
To reheat your Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a little bit of heavy cream or milk during reheating can help keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as this may cause the sauce to break or the shrimp to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and remove any excess moisture before cooking. This helps ensure they sear nicely and don’t steam in the skillet.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To maintain thickness, you might consider adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is best fresh, you can prepare components ahead like cooking the pasta and shrimp separately and making the sauce. Combine and reheat gently when ready to serve for a quick and delicious meal.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach all make wonderful additions, adding color, flavor, and nutrients without overpowering the creamy sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate when cooking the sauce and stir constantly once the cream is added. Adding cheese off the heat or on low heat ensures a silky texture without separation.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a luxurious treat but is so easy to whip up that it can be a weeknight favorite. Its creamy, garlicky sauce paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes a beloved staple on your menu!
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Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful Shrimp Alfredo recipe featuring tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and combined with a rich Parmesan cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This classic Italian-American dish is an easy weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-quality taste at home.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the cream thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce and heated through. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce while simmering.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Add steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetables to incorporate more greens and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
