Name: Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound fettuccini pasta; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 pound cooked shrimp – peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream; 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt to taste

If you’re craving a creamy, soul-warming pasta dinner that comes together in just about 40 minutes, Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is truly the answer! This dish has been a family favorite in my kitchen for years. There’s just something magical about perfectly cooked shrimp tangled through tender fettuccine, all hugged by a garlicky, cheesy Alfredo sauce. Every bite is indulgent and comforting, yet the fresh parsley and juicy shrimp keep it lively and vibrant. Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a surefire way to make any night at home feel like a special occasion!

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is how just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients come together to make something unforgettable. Each element here brings a unique flavor and texture, so don’t skimp—let’s bring out the best in this classic pasta dish!

Fettuccine pasta: The wide, flat shape holds on to that creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Butter: Adds a lovely silkiness to the sauce and helps sauté the garlic and shrimp to fragrant perfection.
Shrimp (cooked, peeled, and deveined): Plump, juicy shrimp are the star protein; make sure they’re deveined for the cleanest flavor.
Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives Alfredo its signature aromatic kick—don’t go shy!
Half-and-half or heavy cream: The secret to a rich, velvety sauce—choose heavy cream for extra indulgence, or half-and-half for a lighter touch.
Parmesan cheese (grated): The sharp, nutty essence of freshly grated Parmesan turns the sauce from good to downright irresistible.
Fresh parsley (chopped): A pop of freshness and color; sprinkle it generously over the finished dish.
Salt: Don’t forget to season! Just a pinch brings all the flavors together and balances the richness.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by filling a big pot with salted water and bring it to a roaring boil. Toss in your fettuccine and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente—about 8 minutes should do the trick. Drain it well, but don’t rinse, so the noodles stay ready to absorb that creamy Alfredo sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic

While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic, stirring just until the shrimp are heated through and the garlic turns fragrant, about a minute. If your shrimp are already cooked, don’t overdo it—they just need to be warmed up, not toughened!

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

With your shrimp and garlic ready, slowly pour in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and give everything a gentle stir. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese a tablespoon at a time, letting it melt and thicken the sauce as you go. This is where Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo gets all its dreamy, cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Mix in the freshly chopped parsley and add salt to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another minute or two, stirring frequently, until it reaches that luscious, spoon-coating consistency we all love.

Step 5: Toss with Fettuccine

Add the drained fettuccine right into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly so every strand is coated with the creamy Alfredo and those beautiful shrimp are tucked throughout. Serve your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot and fresh!

How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Garnishes

Finish your masterpiece with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a bit more fresh parsley right before serving. A crack of black pepper or a tiny drizzle of lemon juice can also add a subtle brightness that wakes up all those rich flavors.

Side Dishes

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad—think arugula or mixed baby greens with a tangy vinaigrette. Add warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, or serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a splash of color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, try twirling portions of fettuccine into little nests on each plate, placing the shrimp right on top for extra wow-factor. You can also serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo in a large, shallow platter family-style or put it in individual ramekins and finish them under the broiler for a bubbly, golden Parmesan crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the sauce may thicken as it sits, but it will still be delicious!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy after thawing. If you do choose to freeze, seal portions tightly and enjoy within a month for best results, knowing the texture may be a bit different.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and heat just until warmed through—overheating can make the shrimp tough and the sauce less silky.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp are super convenient and taste great in Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The Alfredo sauce itself is already gluten-free—no adjustments needed.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half. You can even use whole milk in a pinch, though the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. For a dairy-free take, try coconut cream, though the flavor will change slightly.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat or a bit of lemon zest for brightness. A handful of sautéed mushrooms or spinach stirred in can also add another delicious dimension to Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Gently reheat and whisk well before tossing with your pasta and shrimp.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a bowl of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo you made yourself. It’s simple, hearty, and somehow always manages to delight everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try soon—one bite and I’m sure it’ll become a treasured favorite in your home, too!