Who can resist a creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta? This Shrimp Alfredo recipe is for those who crave restaurant-quality seafood pasta right in the comfort of their own kitchen.

shrimp alfredo recipe

Easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

What You’ll Learn:

  • How to make an irresistible, creamy Alfredo sauce from scratch.
  • The secrets to cooking shrimp so they’re succulent and flavorful.
  • Tips on choosing the best pasta for Alfredo dishes.

Grab your apron—let’s get cooking!

Why Shrimp Alfredo is a Classic

Shrimp Alfredo is beloved for a reason—it’s indulgent without being overly complicated. The delicate sweetness of the shrimp comes alive alongside the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, while the pasta serves as the perfect base for this flavor explosion. It’s no wonder it’s a staple on the menu of Italian-American restaurants.

Making it at home allows you to control every ingredient, ensuring every bite is perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For 4 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (yes, more garlic—it’s worth it!)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but it adds depth)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
  • Water for boiling (with a pinch of salt)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • A squeeze of lemon juice for freshness

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking!
  4. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

  1. While cooking the shrimp, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes 10–12 minutes.
  3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. This starchy water can adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

  1. Use the same skillet (no need to wash it—the shrimp flavors are a bonus!) and melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking to combine with the melted butter.
  4. Lower the heat and keep stirring as the sauce begins to thicken (about 3 minutes).
  5. Slowly add in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to avoid clumps.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if you’re feeling fancy).

Step 4: Combine It All

  1. Add the drained pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing it to coat every strand evenly.
  2. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out.
  3. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

  1. Serve the Shrimp Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  2. If desired, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the pasta for brightness—it perfectly balances the richness.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Alfredo

  1. Choose the Right Shrimp

Large shrimp (16/20 count per pound) work best. They’re easy to manage and offer the perfect bite-to-pasta ratio.

  1. Fresh Parmesan is Key

Skip the pre-grated stuff—it doesn’t melt as well. Grate your Parmesan fresh for a silky-smooth sauce.

  1. Watch the Heat

Alfredo sauce thickens quickly, so keep the heat low and whisk continually to avoid burning or curdling.

  1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

They cook fast, so keep an eye on them! Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and overpower the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While milk can be used for a lighter version, it won’t achieve the same rich and creamy texture. If opting for milk, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

No problem! Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese also works well as a substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Shrimp Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep the shrimp and boil the pasta earlier. Just reheat the sauce gently before combining everything.

What other proteins can I use?

Chicken or scallops make excellent substitutes for shrimp. If you’re vegetarian, sautéed mushrooms are a hearty alternative.

A Chef’s Twist

If you want to experiment further, consider this twist:

  • Cajun Shrimp Alfredo: Add a Cajun spice mix to the shrimp for a smoky kick. Pair it with an extra squeeze of lemon to balance the heat.

Impress with Your Shrimp Alfredo Tonight

Shrimp Alfredo is more than just dinner—it’s an experience. From the velvety Alfredo sauce to the tender shrimp, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a midweek treat or hosting a dinner party, this recipe never disappoints.

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