Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach Recipe

If you’re craving something rich and satisfying that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach is going to be your new go-to. Picture tender shrimp nestled in a velvety, cheesy Alfredo sauce, perfectly tangled with fettuccine and brightened up by fresh spinach—it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish blends creamy indulgence with just the right touch of freshness every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, coming together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, creaminess, and a touch of green goodness. Each element adds a special role, from the rich cream that creates the sauce’s luscious texture to the spinach that adds vibrant color and a fresh, earthy note.

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta: This ribbon-like pasta perfectly holds the sauce and provides a hearty base.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender, juicy shrimp add a delicious seafood touch and protein boost.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a healthy, slightly earthy counterpoint to the richness.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates that signature thick, creamy Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to every bite.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers nutty, savory depth and helps thicken the sauce as it melts.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a silky, rich base to cook the garlic and shrimp.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance the flavors.
• Parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of fresh green color and a mild herbaceous note.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, drain it and set it aside, so it’s ready to soak up that creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling with buttery goodness. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute—this little step fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma! Then, add your shrimp and cook them until they turn a lovely pink and opaque, typically about 3 to 4 minutes. This ensures they’re perfectly tender and juicy.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Time to pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich, silky texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

Now, toss in the fresh spinach and let it gently wilt right in the sauce for about 2 minutes. This simple addition not only adds a lovely pop of green but also balances the richness with a fresh, mild flavor.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste—this elevates all the flavors beautifully. Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring each strand of pasta is luxuriously coated with the creamy spinach-studded Alfredo sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the creaminess beautifully, making your dish as stunning as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

Pair this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce. Both sides complement the richness perfectly without overpowering the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Alfredo over roasted spaghetti squash for a low-carb option, or plate individual servings in shallow bowls with extra Parmesan shaved on top. Drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors and add a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. The shrimp and spinach hold up well, but the pasta is best gently reheated to maintain texture and creaminess.

Freezing

While freezing creamy shrimp Alfredo dishes can be tricky because cream may separate, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and spinach separately from the Alfredo sauce. Thaw both slowly and gently reheat, stirring carefully to recombine for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore that silky sauce texture. Stir constantly to prevent the sauce from breaking or the shrimp from becoming rubbery—this helps you enjoy the dish almost as good as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure it sautés properly and doesn’t release excess water into the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but keep in mind the sauce may be less thick and creamy.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and follow the recipe as normal for a delicious gluten-free version of Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers are excellent additions that complement the creamy sauce and shrimp wonderfully.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Keep your heat moderate when simmering the cream and cheese, and avoid boiling vigorously. Stir gently and steadily when reheating to maintain a smooth, velvety sauce texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach comes together—comfort on a plate with a fresh twist. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself without complicated fuss. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite for many weeks to come. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a plateful of pure, creamy bliss!