As a baker and someone who loves cooking, I find joy in creating dishes that bring comfort and elegance to the table. One of my all-time favorites to prepare for family dinners or special occasions is Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. From the first time I tried making it at home, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan, combined with the delicate flavor of shrimp, always makes the kitchen feel warm and inviting. This recipe quickly became a go-to for me whenever I wanted something indulgent yet easy to prepare.
You will love this recipe because it perfectly balances richness with lightness. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats every strand of fettuccine, while the shrimp adds a tender, slightly sweet flavor that complements the buttery sauce. It is comfort food elevated to a restaurant-quality dish that you can enjoy at home without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is also versatile; you can pair it with fresh vegetables, toss in a sprinkle of herbs, or even swap shrimp for chicken if you prefer.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its affordability. While it tastes decadent, it doesn’t require expensive ingredients. Fresh shrimp, pasta, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese are all you need to create a dish that impresses everyone at the table. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a restaurant-style meal in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo:
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12 ounces fettuccine pasta
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1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
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4 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
This combination of simple ingredients delivers an elegant dish that feels luxurious yet is approachable for any home cook. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is guaranteed to impress with its creamy texture, rich flavor, and comforting aroma.
Preparing Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is easier than it looks, and following a few simple steps will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful dish every time. The key is to cook the pasta perfectly, sauté the shrimp just right, and create a smooth Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of fettuccine.
How to Prepare This Recipe
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Cook the Fettuccine:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later. -
Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. -
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. -
Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. -
Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan, stirring carefully to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Customize and Serve:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and creamy.
Quick and Easy Tips:
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Use pre-cooked or frozen shrimp to save time.
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Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh for a smoother sauce.
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Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce instead of adding extra cream.
Customizable Options:
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Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor.
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Swap shrimp for chicken if preferred.
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Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
This recipe is popular for a reason: it’s indulgent yet simple, creamy but light, and versatile enough to suit many tastes. Whether served for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or a gathering with friends, Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo always impresses.
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Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo – Easy Seafood Pasta Recipe
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender shrimp with a buttery Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s simple to make yet feels indulgent and restaurant-quality.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Cook the Shrimp: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low, gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Thin with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Toss fettuccine in the sauce. Add shrimp and cook 1-2 minutes more. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and smooth sauce.
Customize with vegetables or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
(FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.
2. How can I make the Alfredo sauce creamier?
For an extra creamy sauce, use heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Adding a small amount of reserved pasta water can also help achieve a smoother consistency.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served immediately, as the sauce may thicken and the pasta may absorb too much liquid if stored. If needed, store components separately and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and heavy cream with a creamy non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Use dairy-free Parmesan to complete the flavor.
5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery. Remove them from the heat immediately once done, as they will continue to cook slightly when added to the pasta.
6. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely. Ingredients like spinach, peas, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes complement the creamy sauce and shrimp beautifully.
7. How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a small amount of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.