If you’re craving a meal that wraps you in cozy, creamy goodness with a touch of elegance, this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture perfectly cooked fettuccine swimming in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, paired with tender, succulent shrimp that add just the right hint of seafood sweetness. Every forkful is a delightful balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it the perfect dish to impress loved ones or simply treat yourself to a comforting Italian-American classic at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in bringing together that iconic creamy flavor and satisfying texture that defines fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the quality shine through, creating a dish that’s both elegant and approachable.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The broad, flat noodles hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, briny protein element that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing the shrimp, adding a subtle richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and savory warmth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Forms the luscious base of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its signature silky texture.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for that nutty, sharp cheese flavor and creamy consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the overall flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Provides a fresh, bright contrast to the richness.
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional): A squeeze of lemon adds a delightful zing that cuts through the creaminess.
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your fettuccine according to the package instructions. This ensures the noodles will be perfectly al dente—firm but tender. Be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta water once it’s done because it’s a secret weapon for loosening the sauce later if it gets too thick.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper first. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn a tempting pink and become opaque. Then, set them aside to keep warm while you finish the sauce. This step is key to having juicy, flavorful shrimp that don’t get rubbery.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so it releases its aroma without burning. Then, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring the mixture to a simmer. Slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is perfectly smooth and glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so take your time to get it just right.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked fettuccine directly to your sauce, tossing it gently to coat every noodle. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in some of the reserved pasta water—this keeps the texture silky and easy to twirl on your fork. Nestle the sautéed shrimp back into the pan and toss everything together one last time until the shrimp are heated through and evenly distributed. Now your Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is ready to shine!
How to Serve Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild herbal brightness that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully. For an extra dimension of flavor, don’t hesitate to serve with lemon wedges on the side—the zesty citrus juice gives a refreshing contrast that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides that won’t compete with its creaminess. Think crisp, garlicky green beans sautéed in olive oil or a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Some crusty bread is also a fantastic companion to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Or create an elegant dinner by plating a nest of pasta topped with shrimp and a sprig of parsley, finishing with a drizzle of truffle oil for a subtle gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the sauce thickens as it cools, so it’s best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing
Because Alfredo sauce contains cream and cheese, freezing can change the texture, making it grainy or separated after thawing. For this reason, it’s not recommended to freeze leftovers of this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe. Instead, try to prepare fresh portions when possible for the best experience.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir continuously until heated through, ensuring the shrimp stay tender and the sauce regains its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce’s texture and the shrimp’s sear.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the Alfredo sauce?
While traditional Alfredo sauce relies on butter, cream, and Parmesan, you can experiment with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version, though it won’t taste quite the same as the classic.
What kind of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for a smooth sauce and the best flavor. Avoid pre-grated or powdered Parmesan, as they often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Can I substitute the pasta type?
Definitely! While fettuccine is traditional, linguine or tagliatelle make excellent substitutes as their shapes also hold the sauce well.
How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Cook the shrimp quickly over medium heat for just a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Removing them from the heat promptly ensures they stay tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta with perfectly cooked shrimp, and this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe truly delivers on that front. It’s straightforward enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve for guests. Go ahead and dive into this creamy sea of flavor—you won’t regret making it a much-loved staple in your kitchen!
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Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp is a creamy, indulgent Italian-American pasta dish featuring perfectly cooked fettuccine tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce and topped with succulent sautéed shrimp. This flavorful, restaurant-quality meal comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish and Optional
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Combine Shrimp and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together until heated through and well combined. Serve the fettuccine Alfredo warm, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting quality and authentic flavor.
- For an extra layer of richness, you can stir in a splash of white wine or an egg yolk into the sauce before serving.
- If you don’t have fettuccine, linguine or tagliatelle are excellent substitutes for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
