Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – Rich, Velvety, and Flavorful

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a decadent, yet simple, pasta dish that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food at home. Succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection and tossed in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce, coating every strand of fettuccine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender shrimp cooked perfectly in creamy Alfredo sauce
• Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights
• Pork-free, alcohol-free, and family-friendly
• Rich, velvety sauce that clings to every noodle
• Easy to customize with spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Season shrimp with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
7. Season sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
8. Add cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
9. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine with pasta and sauce.
10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh or frozen shrimp; thaw completely before cooking
• Substitute fettuccine with linguine or spaghetti if preferred
• Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for color and flavor
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
• Top with extra Parmesan cheese for an indulgent finish

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess
• Avoid freezing pasta with cream sauce; it may separate when thawed
• Shrimp can overcook during reheating, so reheat gently just until warmed

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
• Pair with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a complete meal
• Sprinkle crushed red pepper or lemon zest for added brightness
• Serve with a light sparkling water or a fresh iced tea

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess water from thinning the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, but combine with shrimp only when ready to serve. This keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Linguine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle work well. Adjust cooking time to package instructions.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

Add more Parmesan to thicken or a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce for your preferred consistency.

Ready to Make It?

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta combines rich, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked shrimp for an indulgent, yet simple dinner. This recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or a special occasion, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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