Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

This Shrimp Alfredo recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic Italian-American dish! Tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta are coated in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, making for a decadent and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and flavorful: The Alfredo sauce is made with heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic and spices for a rich and decadent flavor.
• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Elegant: The dish has a sophisticated flavor that’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the dish by adding different vegetables or herbs.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Shrimp Alfredo

This recipe uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a classic dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and thawed if frozen.
• Coarse Salt and Pepper: To season the shrimp.
• Smoked Paprika (or Cajun Seasoning): Adds a smoky flavor to the shrimp.
• Fettuccine Pasta: Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, Nutmeg: A blend of spices that add depth and complexity to the sauce.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and richness to the sauce.
• Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
• Lemon Wedge and Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (or Cajun seasoning). Toss to coat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large nonstick saucepan, combine the heavy cream and butter over medium-low heat. Whisk until the butter has melted. Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg. Whisk until smooth. Increase the heat slightly and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the raw shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately toss the cooked fettuccine with the shrimp and Alfredo sauce. Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Squeeze a touch of lemon juice over each serving and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shrimp: You can use other types of seafood, such as scallops or lobster, instead of shrimp.
• Pasta: You can use other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it.
• Don’t boil the sauce: Boiling the sauce can cause it to curdle. Keep it at a gentle simmer and whisk constantly to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo

• Main course: This pasta dish is hearty enough to be served as a main course for lunch or dinner.
• Side dish: You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or your favorite protein.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra cream or milk until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply add it to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the pasta can become mushy if it sits in the sauce for too long. However, you can cook the pasta and make the sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Combine and reheat just before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s not recommended to freeze this recipe, as freezing and thawing can affect the texture of the pasta and sauce.

Can I make this recipe without dairy?
Yes, you can! You can use a dairy-free heavy cream alternative and a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Shrimp Alfredo. I hope you enjoy it!

Print