Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving an easy, restaurant-worthy meal that’s both comforting and impressive, Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is calling your name. Plump, juicy shrimp nestle into silky fettuccine, all tangled up in the richest, creamiest Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Every bite delivers that classic Italian-American flavor we all adore, but with the satisfying pop of fresh shrimp. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a date-night in, this dish brings serious wow-factor to your table—no reservations required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients come together to create something magical. Each component builds deep flavor, irresistible creaminess, or a burst of color that makes this pasta truly special.

• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Sweet, tender shrimp are the star—go for large shrimp if you want extra juiciness in every forkful!
• Fettuccine or Pasta of Choice (12 oz): Fettuccine is a classic here, but any long, twirlable pasta will soak up the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with savory depth—don’t skimp, and be sure to mince it finely for the best flavor release.
• Butter (4 tbsp): Butter is the base of the sauce, bringing rich flavor and a silken texture that pulls the whole dish together.
• Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups): Cream transforms the sauce into a decadent, restaurant-style Alfredo—use full-fat for the best result.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Fresh-grated Parmesan melts in for salty, nutty, umami-packed deliciousness.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): These kitchen basics let you fine-tune the flavor exactly how you like it.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Just a sprinkle brightens the whole plate and adds a fresh herbal finish.

How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine (or your preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain well and set aside. Timing the pasta just right is key—a slightly firm bite will hold up beautifully when tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. The aroma alone will have everyone wandering into the kitchen!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Next, add the shrimp to the buttery garlic mixture. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook—they’ll finish cooking a bit more in the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce thickens slightly. You’re looking for a velvety smooth consistency that’ll cling to every strand of pasta.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Season

Return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce until every noodle is coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. A quick toss with the shrimp and you’re good to go—this is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the finished Shrimp Alfredo Pasta to a big serving bowl or individual plates. Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley for color and a pop of freshness. Serve immediately, and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and a splash of green, balancing out the richness of the sauce. For a little extra Italian flair, grate a bit more Parmesan on top right before serving. You can even add a twist of freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This decadent shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp, lemony salad or simple roasted vegetables to cut through the creaminess. Warm, crusty garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser—it’s perfect for swiping up any extra Alfredo sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping look, swirl a generous portion of Shrimp Alfredo Pasta into shallow bowls, topping each one with a few reserved shrimp. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. If you’re entertaining, consider serving the pasta in a big, beautiful platter at the center of the table family-style for easy elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Shrimp Alfredo Pasta (lucky you!), transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Stored properly, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days.

Freezing

While the cream-based sauce can sometimes separate when frozen, you can freeze Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for up to 1 month if needed. For the best results, let the pasta cool, store it in a freezer-safe container, and reheat gently, stirring as it warms up.

Reheating

For creamy, saucy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp—just heat everything through until steaming hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is the classic choice, Shrimp Alfredo Pasta works beautifully with linguine, spaghetti, or even short shapes like penne.

Should I use fresh or frozen shrimp?

Both can work well! Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent extra water from thinning out your sauce.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

For a slightly lighter version, swap in half-and-half for some or all of the heavy cream, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. Skim milk isn’t recommended as it won’t create that creamy texture we love in Shrimp Alfredo Pasta.

How can I add more flavor or spice?

Try stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter and garlic step for gentle heat, or finish with a squeeze of lemon to brighten all the flavors. You can also add a handful of sautéed mushrooms or spinach if you’d like extra veggies.

What’s the best way to keep the shrimp tender?

Cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque, and remember that they’ll continue cooking a bit once tossed with the hot pasta and sauce. This way, your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta will feature perfectly juicy shrimp every time.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is pure comfort in a bowl—luxuriously creamy, loaded with plump shrimp, and bursting with homemade flavor. I can’t wait for you to dive in and enjoy it as much as I do. Give it a try, and prepare for serious smiles around your table!