There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a creamy pasta dish after a long day, and this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe captures that essence effortlessly. Picture this: the rich scent of garlic mingling with butter as succulent shrimp sizzle in your pan, the promise of velvety sauce ready to envelop your favorite pasta. It’s a meal that tastes indulgent but remains simple enough for any weeknight dinner.
Perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan, makes for an elegant dish that’s bound to impress dinner guests without breaking a sweat. Plus, with delightful variations like Cajun Shrimp Alfredo or a veggie-packed twist, you can personalize this classic to fit your palate. In just 30 minutes, bring a bit of culinary magic to your table that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe unforgettable?
Simplicity and Speed: Preparing this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a breeze, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights!
Creamy Indulgence: The combination of heavy cream and rich Parmesan cheese creates a decadent sauce that hugs the pasta beautifully.
Versatile Variations: Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy Cajun twist or a lightened-up version, this recipe adapts effortlessly to suit your cravings.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this elegant dish at your next gathering, and watch as your guests rave about the amazing flavors.
Healthy Options: Want to make it a bit lighter? Swap in Greek yogurt or throw in some fresh veggies for a nutritional boost without sacrificing taste.
Each bite of this delightful meal will have you and your loved ones coming back for more!
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Fettuccine or Linguine Pasta – The classic base for this dish; feel free to swap for any pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni or penne.
For the Shrimp
• Medium Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined) – Tender and full of flavor; wild-caught shrimp elevate this dish significantly.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons) – Provides rich flavor; using high-quality butter like Plugrá or Kerrygold makes a difference.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Helps prevent butter from burning while adding extra flavor.
• Garlic (4 cloves, finely minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; grate for the best aroma.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates that signature creamy sauce; substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Boosts the flavor; seafood stock can add even more depth.
• Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup) – The star ingredient for flavor; freshly grated cheese ensures smooth melting.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for bringing out flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Nutmeg (pinch, optional) – A small touch brightens the sauce; adds a subtle complexity to flavors.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons) – A splash of color and freshness for garnish.
This Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is guaranteed to impress with its creamy richness and delightful flavors. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, these ingredients will create a dish that everyone will love!
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining.
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Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, pat shrimp dry and add them to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque.
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Flavor Base: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir and cook until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds, keeping an eye on your garlic so it doesn’t burn!
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Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Allow to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
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Garnish: Remove from heat and finish with chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Shrimp Alfredo?
Creating a delightful dining experience alongside your creamy dish is a fulfilling way to impress family and friends.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s a cozy companion that adds satisfying texture to your meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Shrimp Alfredo. The crunchiness of the salad pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green, tender steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element to your plate. It not only enhances the dish visually but also provides a lovely balance to the heavy sauce.
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Roasted Asparagus: This elegant side dish brings a hint of char and earthiness to your meal, contrasting nicely with the creamy pasta. A drizzle of lemon enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing drink, this light and bubbly beverage cuts through the richness of the Alfredo, enhancing your dining experience. The citrusy notes brighten every bite!
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Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish after such a rich first course, creamy chocolate mousse delivers a delightful dessert that feels indulgent yet balances the meal perfectly.
Pair any of these options with your Shrimp Alfredo Recipe for a memorable dining experience that delights all your senses!
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Alfredo Recipe components are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the creamy sauce and sauté the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and shrimp in a skillet over low heat, stirring in freshly cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water as needed. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Shrimp Alfredo on a hectic evening with minimal effort, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Expert Tips for Shrimp Alfredo
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Pat Dry Shrimp: Always pat shrimp dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear. Excess moisture leads to steaming rather than browning, which diminishes flavor.
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Low Heat for Cheese: When adding Parmesan cheese, keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from splitting. This helps maintain the creamy texture of your Shrimp Alfredo.
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Freshly Grated Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated for better melting and flavor. It makes a significant difference in the final result.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta cooking water! This starchy liquid can be added to the sauce to achieve your desired consistency, ensuring a perfect coat on your pasta.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Adding just the right amount of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor of your Shrimp Alfredo.
Shrimp Alfredo Variations
Feel free to embrace your culinary creativity with these enticing twists that take your Shrimp Alfredo to delightful new heights!
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Cajun Shrimp: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on your shrimp while sautéing for a spicy, smoky flavor that dances on your palate. The heat from the spices adds depth, making every bite an adventure.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a nutritious uplift to your creamy dish. It’s a wonderful way to enhance the color and texture while sneaking in a wholesome dose of greens.
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Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you crave more garlic, simply double the amount, or add roasted garlic for a sweeter, richer flavor. That aromatic punch will have your taste buds singing louder than ever!
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Lighter Version: Swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a mix of half-and-half to maintain creaminess with fewer calories. You won’t miss out on flavor but will feel better about enjoying this indulgent dish.
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Lemon Zest Twist: Brighten things up by grating in some lemon zest and a squeeze of juice. It uncovers a refreshing tang that beautifully complements the richness of the sauce.
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Gluten-Free Alternative: Use brown rice or chickpea pasta instead of traditional fettuccine, ensuring everyone can indulge in your delicious Shrimp Alfredo. It offers a hearty texture while catering to gluten-sensitive guests.
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Cheesy Spin: For those who adore cheese, add a blend of mozzarella and parmesan to the sauce. This cheesy twist creates an extra gooey layer that makes each forkful irresistibly melty and delightful.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the sauce for a fragrant burst of flavor. The freshness of herbs can lighten the dish and make the creamy sauce feel vibrant and lively.
Storage Tips for Shrimp Alfredo
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Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken; reheat gently and add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
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Freezer: You can freeze the Alfredo sauce separately for up to 2 months. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
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Reheating: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid splitting the sauce. Stir frequently and add reserved pasta water or broth as needed to achieve your desired creaminess.
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Pasta Storage: If you do have leftover pasta, store it separately from the sauce to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid. Enjoy your Shrimp Alfredo Recipe at its best!
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! When making this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, I highly recommend using medium, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. Look for shrimp that is labeled as peeled and deveined, which saves you time in preparation. If you’re unsure, fresh shrimp should have a mild sea-like aroma and feel firm to the touch.
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your delicious Shrimp Alfredo fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the sauce thickens during storage, don’t worry! Just reheat gently on low heat and add a splash of milk or broth to bring back that rich creaminess.
Can I freeze Shrimp Alfredo?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the Alfredo sauce separately from the pasta. Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag and label it. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat on low, and cook fresh pasta for a perfect pairing!
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
No problem! If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a little reserved pasta water or chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring over medium-low heat. This will help loosen the sauce without compromising the creaminess. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning afterward!
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Very! For a lighter take on this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, consider substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use half-and-half. You can also add steamed veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. This way, you enjoy the comforting flavors without the extra calories!
Mouthwatering Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, pat shrimp dry and add them to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir and cook until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Allow to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you've reached your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and finish with chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.