Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a luxurious, creamy pasta dish that combines tender, succulent shrimp with silky fettuccine noodles smothered in a rich and garlicky Alfredo sauce. This restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly easy to prepare at home and makes for an indulgent weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

With its velvety sauce, delicate seafood, and perfectly cooked pasta, Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is comfort food elevated to elegant simplicity.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats each strand of fettuccine, while the shrimp adds a succulent, slightly sweet seafood flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.

It’s decadent yet approachable, making it a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen. The aroma of garlic, butter, and Parmesan fills the kitchen and immediately makes you crave a plateful.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a must-try because it combines comfort and elegance in one dish. The creamy, cheesy sauce envelops tender pasta, and the lightly seared shrimp add texture and flavor that elevate the dish.

It’s a classic Italian-American favorite that’s versatile, quick to prepare, and satisfying for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions. Every bite feels indulgent but is easy to replicate at home.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course / Pasta

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté in olive oil over medium-high heat 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
5. Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Fettuccine

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook fettuccine until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Shrimp

• Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sauté shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make Alfredo Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Seasonings

• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg for depth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

• Add cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
• Return shrimp to the pan and gently mix to combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
• Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in shallow bowls or on plates with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Optional: drizzle with extra olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
• Do not overcook shrimp to keep them tender.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Toss pasta immediately with sauce to prevent it from sticking.

Variations

• Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Version: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 6 cloves for a stronger flavor.
• Lemon Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or juice for freshness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as Alfredo sauce may separate.
• Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Grater for Parmesan
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free fettuccine pasta.

Q3: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Alfredo sauce is best prepared fresh. If made ahead, gently reheat and stir in a splash of cream.

Q4: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, but fresh-grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Q5: How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick or thin?
Adjust with more cream for thinner sauce or cook slightly longer to thicken.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic comfort dish that is both rich and satisfying. With tender shrimp, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a silky Alfredo sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to prepare at home. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions, this recipe combines elegance and comfort in every creamy, flavorful bite.