Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish perfect for a family dinner and ready in just 25 minutes. Loaded with tender shrimp, Parmesan, and a hint of garlic, this homemade seafood delight will satisfy everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients or hours of prep time to make it happen. Everything comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s a great way to elevate a weeknight dinner without the fuss.

Whether serving it up with a crisp green salad, some crusty garlic bread, or just enjoying it on its own, Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Creamy Alfredo sauce and succulent shrimp give it a luxurious, dine-out feel.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry and fridge staples you probably already have.
• Versatile: Pair it with salad, bread, or veggies for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or add veggies like broccoli or spinach.
• Impressive Yet Effortless: Great for entertaining guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that both kids and adults will rave about.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich, creamy, and satisfying with every bite.

Ingredients

• Fettuccine: The perfect pasta for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps cook the shrimp to perfection.
• Shrimp: The star of the dish, bringing a delicate, juicy sweetness. If you use frozen shrimp, thaw completely first.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with an irresistible aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use 3 tablespoons of minced garlic from a jar in its place.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, velvety base for the Alfredo sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
• Parmesan Cheese: The key to a creamy, cheesy sauce with a bold, nutty flavor.
• Lemon: Brightens the dish with a pop of fresh citrus and enhances the shrimp.
• Salt and Pepper: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
• Lemon Wedges (optional): Perfect for squeezing on top for extra tanginess.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

• Step One: Cook the fettuccine according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
• Step Two: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 minute each side. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
• Step Three: Add the garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Step Four: Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened.

• Step Five: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the Parmesan cheese. Squeeze the lemon on top and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the shrimp is heated and the Parmesan is melted.
• Step Six: Remove from the heat. Stir in the cooked fettuccine until coated in the sauce.
• Step Seven: Serve in bowls and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.

What to Serve with It

• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty slice of garlic bread to soak up that creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are excellent options to bring a touch of vibrant color and crunch to the plate.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Use cooked chicken, sautéed scallops, or even crispy bacon for a delicious twist.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the shrimp and toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed version.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the Parmesan slightly for a lighter sauce. You can also use ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of whole milk.
• Add Some Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use a Different Pasta: While fettuccine is classic, try linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Boost the Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, asparagus tips, or peas for added color and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-friendly.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or chives instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
• Cheese Options: Mix in a bit of Romano or Gruyère cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing the container.
• Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing this recipe.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat for best results. Add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce to bring back its creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid the sauce separating.
• Microwave Option: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a small amount of milk or cream, and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Tips for Shrimp: Be careful not to overheat the shrimp when reheating, as they can become rubbery. Remove them from the pasta if needed and add them back in at the end of reheating.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—about 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely!
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan can be convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce and has better flavor.
• Salt the Pasta Water: Add a generous pinch of salt to your boiling water before cooking the fettuccine. It’s your first chance to season the pasta itself.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of the starchy cooking water. You can use it to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: This recipe moves quickly, so have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before adding the Parmesan. This will help create a creamy consistency.
• Combine While Hot: Toss the pasta with the sauce while both are still warm to ensure every strand gets coated in creamy goodness.
• Garnish Like a Pro: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon add the perfect finishing touches for presentation and flavor.
• Work in Batches (if needed): If your skillet feels crowded when cooking the shrimp, cook them in two batches to ensure even cooking.

Shrimp Recipes

• Instant Pot Shrimp Boil
• Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry
• Grilled Shrimp Tacos