Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 cups shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for a quick yet decadent meal. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and savory with succulent shrimp complementing the rich Alfredo sauce. This dish not only satisfies my cravings, but it also impresses guests with its restaurant-quality flavor. The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:57:43.629Z

When I first attempted to make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, I was nervous about the sauce. I didn’t want it to be too thick or too bland. After experimenting with a few techniques, I discovered that adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce creates an incredibly smooth texture while also helping it cling to the pasta beautifully.

Another game-changer was incorporating freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese. The flavor was richer, and it melted seamlessly into the sauce. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and now this dish is a staple in our home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy Alfredo sauce made from scratch
Perfectly cooked shrimp that bursts with flavor
Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner

      

Mastering the Perfect Alfredo Sauce

Making Alfredo sauce from scratch is key to achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor that distinguishes a great Shrimp Alfredo Pasta. The combination of heavy cream and butter creates a luxurious mouthfeel, while the fresh Parmesan adds a savory depth. Make sure to use high-quality cheese; pre-grated Parmesan may contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Gruyère or Pecorino Romano can also be used for a twist in flavor.

When preparing the sauce, keep a close eye on the garlic as it can quickly turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until fragrant, approximately one minute. Once you add the cream, the sauce will thicken as it cooks. To check for the right consistency, it should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Selecting and Cooking the Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, as they stand out both visually and in taste. Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor, but if you're using frozen, ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps achieve that lovely caramelization during sautéing. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

When sautéing, use medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning the shrimp. They should turn pink and opaque in about 3-4 minutes; resist the temptation to overcrowd the skillet, as this will steam the shrimp instead of searing them. Cooking in batches is often a good strategy to achieve that perfect golden edge and a delightful texture.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan to brighten the dish. You can also pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Although the texture may soften slightly after refrigeration, you can reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Freezing this dish is not recommended as the cream can separate when thawed.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 cups shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes, then gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or top with fresh parsley before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, although this will alter the creaminess factor. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar richness without using dairy products.

Regarding the pasta, while fettuccine is classic, feel free to swap it with linguine, penne, or even whole grain options to suit your dietary preferences. Gluten-free pasta works well too; just be sure to follow the cooking instructions to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Customizing Your Dish

Get creative with additional ingredients! Adding sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach can introduce bright flavors and added nutrients. If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce or sauté sliced jalapeños along with the shrimp.

For those who prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, adding roasted garlic to the sauce elevates the taste considerably. Roasted garlic can be easily prepared by wrapping whole cloves in foil and baking them at 400°F (200°C) until golden and soft, typically around 30-35 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your Alfredo sauce is too thick, it can be easily adjusted by whisking in small amounts of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow some evaporation, which helps thicken it naturally.

A common concern is a clumpy sauce due to improperly melted cheese. To prevent this, make sure to gradually whisk in the Parmesan, allowing it to melt slowly into the sauce. If clumps do form, use an immersion blender to create a smooth texture without compromising the flavors you've developed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the richness may vary.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some chopped fresh chili while sautéing the shrimp.