Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; Salt for boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:58:15.158Z

This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a beloved classic that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It's a dish that will impress your family and friends while being easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every strand of pasta
Succulent shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce and succulent shrimp. This dish is not just about satisfying your hunger; it's about indulging in a culinary experience that warms your soul. The combination of fettuccine pasta and a velvety sauce offers a delightful texture that every pasta lover craves.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. With its elegant presentation and sumptuous taste, Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a dish that feels special yet is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. Make it your go-to recipe for any occasion!

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. A splash of white wine in the sauce can elevate the dish even further, providing a depth of flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.

If you're looking for a lightened-up version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy texture while reducing calories. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours!

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your meal, pair Shrimp Alfredo Pasta with a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will balance the richness of the pasta, making for a well-rounded dining experience. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully and enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Don't forget about bread! A crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette can be perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate. This combination not only satisfies but also creates a delightful dining ambiance that your family and guests will love.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
Salt for boiling water

For the Alfredo Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it begins to simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine

Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Alfredo Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Alfredo

To achieve the best results with your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, make sure to use fresh shrimp. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh shrimp will yield a superior flavor and texture. When cooking the shrimp, avoid overcooking them; they should be just pink and opaque. This ensures they remain tender and juicy, adding to the overall dish.

Another tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to your Alfredo sauce can help achieve the perfect consistency, making the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta. It’s a simple trick that can elevate your dish significantly.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Shrimp Alfredo Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the shrimp rubbery. Instead, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

For optimal freshness, try to avoid freezing the dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy paprika when cooking the shrimp.