Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, restaurant-worthy pasta dish that feels both elegant and incredibly satisfying, this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Plump shrimp are quickly sautéed until perfectly tender, then tossed with silky fettuccine and a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce flecked with Parmesan and a touch of Italian herbs. With just the right balance of creamy, cheesy decadence and bright, fresh flavor, it’s a dinner that always wins rave reviews—without tons of effort. Whether for a weeknight treat or an impressive meal for guests, this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering great ingredients is half the fun with this recipe! Each item plays a big part in building the irresistible flavor and creamy texture that make this classic so beloved. Trust me, these simple staples combine beautifully for shrimp Alfredo magic.
- Fettuccine pasta: The wide, sturdy noodles are perfect for soaking up all that luscious Alfredo sauce.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Using big, juicy shrimp ensures each bite is hearty and sweet—don’t skip the peeling for best texture.
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps the shrimp get a golden sear without sticking.
- Unsalted butter, divided: Using butter in both the shrimp and the sauce gives double the savory flavor and silky finish.
- Fresh garlic, minced: Just a few cloves deliver tons of aroma and infuse the sauce with unmistakable depth.
- Heavy cream: This is what makes the Alfredo ultra-creamy and utterly decadent.
- Whole milk: Lightens the sauce ever so slightly for the perfect balance—no heaviness here!
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce and brings each bite a salty, nutty kick.
- Italian seasoning: Lends herbaceous notes that brighten the finished dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle hint of heat makes the flavors pop, so add to taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning at every step and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Not just a garnish—it adds freshness and a little color to the final plate.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Begin by bringing a big pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside—but don’t forget to save a cup of starchy pasta water, just in case you want to loosen the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, lightly season your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Quickly remove the shrimp from the pan so they stay juicy and tender.
Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean out those flavorful brown bits!), add the remaining butter and let it melt over medium. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute—just until it smells amazing, not browned. Then, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, gently stirring and bringing the mixture to a soft simmer.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
With the cream and milk bubbling softly, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Keep whisking as the cheese melts and the sauce thickens—this takes about 3 to 4 minutes. If needed, adjust the consistency with a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s creamy and glossy.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp straight into the skillet, tossing gently with tongs to evenly coat every strand and shrimp in the Alfredo sauce. Taste, then season with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Serve up immediately, making sure each plate gets plenty of shrimp and a shower of chopped fresh parsley on top!
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes
For a restaurant-style finish, scatter plenty of freshly chopped parsley over each serving of Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. If you have a wedge of extra Parmesan, try shaving a few curls on top for extra indulgence. Cracked black pepper and maybe a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes create a lovely contrast against the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This classy main dish pairs perfectly with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or roasted broccoli for color and crunch. Warm, crusty garlic bread or a rustic baguette is always a hit—perfect for mopping up every last drop of Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, swirl a generous portion of fettuccine onto each plate with tongs, then neatly top with shrimp and a sprig of parsley. For a crowd, serve the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in a big family-style bowl at the center of the table. Or, try spooning it into smaller bowls as a luxurious appetizer portion for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Alfredo Recipe should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best texture and flavor. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but don’t worry—it’s easy to loosen up again when reheating.
Freezing
It’s best to avoid freezing this dish if possible, as cream-based sauces can separate and shrimp can become rubbery once thawed. If you do freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers for up to one month and reheat gently, stirring in a bit of cream or milk to restore the creaminess.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Shrimp Alfredo Recipe on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently until hot but not boiling. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating or overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and keeps the sauce from watering down.
What can I use instead of fettuccine?
While fettuccine is classic, you can try linguine, spaghetti, or even penne—any pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce works beautifully in this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe.
Is it possible to make a lighter version?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and use a bit less butter if you prefer. You’ll still get plenty of creaminess, especially with high-quality Parmesan cheese.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas along with the pasta and shrimp for extra color and nutrition. Sautéed mushrooms are also fantastic with Alfredo sauce.
What’s the best way to get a silky sauce?
Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded), and add it slowly while continuously whisking. This ensures a smooth, restaurant-style sauce every time—no graininess here!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, crowd-pleasing Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. With its rich, creamy sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s always a hit—perfect for a special occasion or when you just need a bowl of cozy, cheesy happiness. Enjoy every bite!
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Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy and decadent Shrimp Alfredo dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, al dente fettuccine, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Fettuccine Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil fettuccine until al dente, then drain.
- Cook Shrimp: Season and cook shrimp, then set aside.
- Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, add cream and milk, whisk in cheese and seasonings until thickened.
- Combine: Toss pasta and shrimp in sauce until coated.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the cream.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 225 mg