Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that’s packed with tender shrimp and rich, cheesy sauce. The sauce is perfectly smooth and coats every strand of fettuccine, making each bite full of comforting flavors. You get a nice balance of garlicky goodness and buttery creaminess that makes it a total crowd-pleaser.
I love making Shrimp Alfredo when I want a special dinner that’s still quick to pull together. The shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, which means the whole meal comes together before you know it. Plus, the sauce is pretty forgiving and can be adjusted to your taste – sometimes I add a little extra garlic or a squeeze of lemon to brighten things up.
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to mop up every last bit of Alfredo sauce. Honestly, it’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is so approachable. It always reminds me of cozy nights at home, sharing good food with friends or family, making everyone feel warm and happy at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen peeled and deveined shrimp work great here. If shrimp isn’t your favorite, scallops or chicken breast can be tasty swaps for this pasta dish.
Fettuccine: Classic for Alfredo sauce because its wide ribbons hold the creamy sauce well. You can use linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne if you prefer—just choose a pasta that can catch the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce may be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds savory depth. You could substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use pre-grated cheese when short on time.
Butter & Garlic: Both add essential richness and flavor. Don’t skip on garlic—it brings a lovely aromatic note. If you want a garlic twist, add it slowly so it doesn’t burn.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cooks really fast and can get rubbery if overdone. Here’s how I keep it just right:
- Heat your pan and cook shrimp in a single layer over medium-high heat.
- Cook for about 2 minutes per side without moving them too much.
- Turn shrimp when they turn pink and start curling, then cook 1-2 more minutes until opaque.
- Remove quickly to avoid tough texture—they’ll finish cooking a little in the sauce.
Using this simple timing helps keep shrimp tender and juicy, making your Shrimp Alfredo shine.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for sautéing shrimp and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Large pot – for boiling the fettuccine pasta; roomy enough to cook pasta evenly without sticking.
- Colander – helps you drain pasta quickly and safely.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Grater – if you want fresh Parmesan, it makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for cooked chicken breast when you want a different protein that still pairs well with Alfredo sauce.
- Add steamed broccoli or asparagus for a fresh, green crunch and extra nutrients.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat that livens up the creamy sauce.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes to add a sweet and tangy pop that complements the rich flavors.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Alfredo recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and about 10 minutes preparing the creamy Alfredo sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. 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 rest of the dish.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Place the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce and Combine:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce and toss gently to coat them well.
Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and the shrimp are nicely distributed.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if you like, then serve immediately. Enjoy your warm, creamy Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for Shrimp Alfredo?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. The best way is to thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker or Thinner?
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and concentrate. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta cooking water or a bit more heavy cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I Prepare Shrimp Alfredo Ahead of Time?
You can cook the shrimp and pasta separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with some extra cream or butter to refresh the sauce before combining.
What Sides Pair Well with Shrimp Alfredo?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli works well to balance the rich, creamy pasta. Crusty garlic bread is also a great option to soak up that delicious Alfredo sauce!
