Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to whip up at home, this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe might just be your new go-to. I absolutely love how creamy and comforting the sauce turns out, with just the right amount of garlicky shrimp to make each bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish hits all the right notes without keeping you tied to the kitchen for hours.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the flavors come together with just a handful of ingredients and one pan. You’ll find that this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is perfect for when you want something indulgent but not too fussy—plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. Trust me, your family or friends will go crazy for this creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with tender shrimp!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe has a purpose, from building flavor to creating that rich sauce consistency. When shopping, try to pick fresh shrimp and high-quality parmesan—trust me, it makes a difference you’ll notice.

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness of the sauce perfectly.
• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp are a time saver; tails removed makes eating neater.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce that wonderful aromatic kick.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavor.
• Whole milk: Balances richness and helps keep the sauce light enough.
• Fettuccine noodles: Wide noodles that hold onto all that creamy sauce like a dream.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both pasta and sauce properly.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground if possible, for subtle heat and complexity.
• Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and rounds out the creaminess beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting smoothly and giving a sharp, cheesy bite.
• Heavy cream: This final touch gives the sauce its luxurious texture and richness.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I love swapping in different proteins or adding fresh herbs to mix it up without losing that creamy comfort.

• Using chicken instead of shrimp: I once made this recipe with grilled chicken strips, and it was just as delicious for a change—great for picky eaters!
• Adding spinach or peas: Including greens adds freshness and color, plus a boost of nutrition.
• Gluten-free pasta: I’ve tried this recipe with gluten-free fettuccine, and it came out wonderfully, perfect for guests with sensitivities.
• Spicy kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice heat without overpowering the creamy sauce.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp to Perfection

Start by melting two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your shrimp and cook them for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and slightly pink—this keeps them juicy and tender. Be careful not to overcook; shrimp can get rubbery if left too long. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside so they don’t keep cooking while you finish the sauce.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce and Cook the Pasta Together

Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the hot pan, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and add your fettuccine noodles. Don’t forget to season with kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, and just a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente—this typically takes around 11 minutes. This method saves you from boiling pasta in a separate pot and reduces dishwashing—trust me, I learned that trick early on!

Step 3: Finish with Cheese, Cream, and Shrimp

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and heavy cream to thicken the sauce and boost its richness. Fold the cooked shrimp back in and allow everything to meld together by letting it sit for about five minutes off the heat. This resting time lets the sauce thicken perfectly without overcooking the shrimp. Give it one final stir before serving, and voilà—you’ve nailed this indulgent, creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe!

How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil over my shrimp Alfredo for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Sometimes a little extra cracked black pepper or even a few red pepper flakes add a great finishing touch. If you like garlic bread, serve that alongside to soak up every last bit of the sauce.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus. I also enjoy serving it with roasted cherry tomatoes—they add a burst of sweetness that balances the creamy sauce nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I’ve twirled the fettuccine into neat nests directly on the plate and topped each with a few shrimp, finishing with grated cheese and a sprig of parsley. It looks classy but takes hardly any extra effort—perfect to impress your guests without stress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and try to eat them within 3 to 4 days. The shrimp stays tender, and the sauce might thicken a bit, but a quick stir with a splash of milk brings it back to life.

Freezing

While freezing this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe isn’t my first choice (the texture can change a bit), I have frozen the sauce separately and reheated it gently with fresh pasta. To keep shrimp from turning rubbery, freezing the shrimp alone works better.

Reheating

Reheating on low heat with a splash of milk or broth is my trick to maintaining that creamy texture without breaking the sauce. Microwaving can work in a pinch, but stirring halfway through helps heat evenly and avoids drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and ease. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it always delivers creamy, comforting flavors that hit the spot. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making and eating this as much as I do—give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a family favorite.

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