If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and drenched in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine come together to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent comfort food and fresh seafood, making it a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each simple ingredient in this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe plays a vital role in creating that rich, satisfying flavor and texture. From the silky heavy cream to the fresh garlic and plump shrimp, these essentials come together beautifully.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The wide, flat noodles are perfect for holding creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light, fruity base for cooking shrimp without overpowering them.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender seafood that cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with creamy sauce.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps to create a silky sauce texture.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses fragrance and depth of flavor in the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: The heart of the Alfredo sauce, making it luxuriously creamy.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty flavor and smooth melt that’s key to Alfredo.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and balance to the creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who appreciate a mild kick in their plate.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook it according to the package directions until just al dente—this ensures the pasta will still have a slight bite that holds up perfectly under the rich sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up all that velvety Alfredo goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Next, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the shrimp and cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when left too long. Once done, remove them from the skillet and keep them warm for the final step.
Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. As it melts, stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, just about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, so it thickens slightly and all those buttery, garlicky flavors infuse beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Now, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and if you love a little heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until it is luxuriously smooth and thickened to your liking. This moment is the magic where simple ingredients turn into pure indulgence.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add your drained fettuccine. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, making sure every strand of pasta and each piece of shrimp is coated evenly with that creamy Alfredo sauce. If you like, finish with fresh parsley for a fresh, herbaceous lift.
How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a lovely pop of green but also provides a crisp freshness that cuts through the richness of the Alfredo sauce. A twist of lemon zest or a light drizzle of olive oil can also brighten up the dish beautifully when serving.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a main course but pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus for a bit of crunch. Garlic bread is an all-time favorite side that’s perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a sprig of parsley and a few whole shrimp on top for a restaurant-style presentation. You could also serve it family-style with a large pastry bowl or a rustic wooden dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce might thicken as it cools, so a gentle stir before reheating helps restore its silky texture.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta dishes isn’t generally recommended because the texture of the sauce can change, if needed, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture in the skillet and ensures your shrimp get that perfect sear.
Is there a lighter way to make this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce the fat content. Keep in mind the sauce will be a bit lighter and less thick, but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To adapt this for a vegetarian diet, simply omit the shrimp and add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or asparagus for added texture and flavor. The Alfredo sauce is rich enough to stand on its own.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
For a twist, try Pecorino Romano, which adds a sharp, tangy flare. However, freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting and classic flavor in Alfredo.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from breaking or curdling?
Cook the sauce over medium to low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir continuously and incorporate the cheese off heat or on very low heat to keep it smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delights every bite with creamy, garlicky goodness. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal you want to impress guests with, this recipe promises to become a beloved staple. Give it a try—you’re going to love every forkful!
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Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a luscious, creamy pasta dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed to perfection and enveloped in a rich Parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce. Ideal for a comforting yet elegant meal, this Italian-American classic combines the delicate flavors of garlic, butter, and cream with the satisfying bite of fettuccine pasta. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick and indulgent weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream slightly thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to simmer the sauce for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained fettuccine pasta. Toss everything together gently to fully coat the shrimp and pasta in the Alfredo sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- Chicken can be substituted for shrimp if preferred.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts and blends better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Ensure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
