Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender shrimp, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. The sauce is silky and cheesy, coating each strand of pasta in a luscious way, while the shrimp add a light, fresh flavor that balances everything out.
I love making Shrimp Alfredo when I want something that feels special but is still quick to whip up. One little tip I always follow is to sauté the shrimp just until they’re pink and slightly firm—this keeps them juicy and not rubbery. Mixing in a bit of garlic while cooking the shrimp adds a nice fragrant touch that really boosts the flavor.
My favorite way to enjoy this is with a simple green salad on the side and maybe some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a little celebration, yet it’s so easy to make on any weeknight. Every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe—and I’m always happy to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work great. If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid watery sauce. You can use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience.
Pasta: Fettuccine is classic for Alfredo. You can swap for linguine or tagliatelle if you prefer, as they hold the sauce well.
Heavy cream & Milk: Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich texture, while milk lightens it slightly. For a lighter option, use whole milk only, but the sauce will be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and smooth melting. Avoid pre-grated cheese with anti-caking agents as it can affect sauce texture.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds richness; olive oil helps sauté the shrimp without burning. Unsalted butter lets you control saltiness better.
Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh garlic is key for aroma. Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice gentle heat.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly for Alfredo Sauce?
Shrimp cooks very quickly, so timing is important to avoid rubbery texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer; season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Cook shrimp about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. They should curl slightly.
- Remove shrimp immediately to prevent overcooking; they’ll finish cooking a bit when mixed into hot sauce.
Patting shrimp dry before cooking helps them sear nicely instead of steaming. If you overcrowd the pan, shrimp will release water and steam instead — avoid this by cooking in batches if needed.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the pasta with plenty of water and salt for perfect al dente noodles.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – ideal for cooking shrimp and making the creamy Alfredo sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps stir the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Whisk – great for mixing the cream and cheese smoothly, preventing lumps in the sauce.
- Colander – for draining the cooked pasta quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken strips if you prefer a milder protein that still pairs well with Alfredo sauce.
- Add steamed broccoli or asparagus for a fresh crunch and extra nutrients.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that brightens the creamy sauce.
- Stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to give the dish a gentle kick of spice.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Optional: bits of cooked bacon or pancetta (small pieces), for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish generally takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, while preparing the sauce and mixing everything together takes another 15-18 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weekday meal but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. 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 (usually around 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently as it heats to a simmer.
Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want extra flavor, toss in cooked bacon or pancetta pieces.
4. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce:
Add the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix them in. Stir in the chopped parsley for freshness.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the skillet off the heat. Garnish the dish with more freshly grated Parmesan and additional parsley if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, delicious Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry to remove excess moisture for the best sauté.
Can I Make Shrimp Alfredo Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp a few hours ahead but it’s best to toss with pasta just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring often. Avoid microwaving as the shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce may separate.
What Can I Serve with Shrimp Alfredo?
A crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus balance the rich Alfredo nicely. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are great for soaking up extra sauce.
