Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I love making Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy Alfredo sauce is hard to resist! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Once I mastered the technique of creating a silky sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it became a regular in my kitchen. I can never get enough of this rich and indulgent meal, especially when paired with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:07:39.078Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, I was worried the sauce would be too heavy or not creamy enough. I discovered that using freshly grated Parmesan and incorporating a splash of pasta water created the perfect balance. The pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it cling beautifully to the noodles.

One time, I decided to add a hint of garlic and fresh herbs while sautéing the shrimp, which took the flavor to another level. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for impressing guests while still being easy to whip up on a weeknight!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection
Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic
Quick and simple, yet elegant for any occasion

Mastering the Alfredo Sauce

Creating the perfect Alfredo sauce is a skill worth developing. Start by ensuring your cream is at room temperature before adding it to the pan; this will help it to emulsify smoothly with the cheese, preventing a grainy texture. When pouring in the cream, watch for gentle bubbles before adding the cheese. Stir continuously to achieve a glossy sauce that clings lightly to the pasta, usually taking about 5-7 minutes over medium heat.

I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese over pre-packaged varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and lends a richer flavor. If you can't find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic substitute that adds a salty kick. Remember to reserve a bit of cheese for garnishing the final dish—it adds a lovely touch both in flavor and presentation.

The Role of Shrimp and Pasta

For the shrimp, choosing medium-sized shrimp, ideally tail-on and shell-off, enhances both aesthetics and ease of enjoyment. Sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink ensures they remain tender. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed beforehand, as this will ensure they cook evenly.

Fettuccine is the classic pasta pairing for Alfredo, but if you’re looking for a twist, try linguine or even penne. Just ensure you cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, use rice noodles or gluten-free fettuccine, adjusting cooking times per package instructions.

Ingredients

To make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Having these ingredients ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta:

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the fettuccine evenly with the sauce and shrimp.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Alfredo Pasta!

Serve hot for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli for an extra nutrient boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to enjoy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta later, consider preparing the sauce ahead of time. You can refrigerate the creamy sauce for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up and stirring until glossy again. Just keep the shrimp separate until you're about to reheat to prevent overcooking.

This dish doesn't freeze well due to the cream and cheese combination, which can separate when thawed. However, if you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge will ensure they're good for a quick meal the next day. Just be sure to reheat everything carefully to maintain its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, serve your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta alongside a crisp Caesar salad and some garlic bread. The fresh crunch and zest of the salad beautifully balance the richness of the pasta. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or asparagus for a nutritional boost and an aesthetic pop of color.

For those who want to spice things up, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce will provide a delightful kick without overwhelming the dish. Additionally, try incorporating lemon zest to add brightness to the rich flavors, or even swap shrimp for chicken or scallops, adjusting the cooking times accordingly for optimal tenderness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

→ What side dishes pair well with Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?

A fresh garden salad and garlic bread are great accompaniments.