If you love that rich, velvety pasta sauce paired with tender, succulent shrimp, then this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is going to become your new go-to comfort dinner. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked fettuccine enveloped in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, with just the right hint of spice from crushed red pepper flakes, all topped off by juicy shrimp cooked to tender perfection. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion indulgence, this dish shines with its luxurious texture and satisfying flavors that’ll make you want seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each one is essential in creating that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in your Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe. From the richness of the butter and cream to the brightness of fresh parsley, every component plays a delicious part.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: Provides the classic wide noodles that soak up the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, briny protein that pairs perfectly with cream sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to gently cook shrimp, adding a subtle fruity flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided: Creates that rich base for both cooking shrimp and the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic minced: Delivers fragrant, aromatic warmth to the sauce and shrimp.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce its distinctive sharp, nutty taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of all ingredients harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick to balance the richness, if you like a bit of spice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package directions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This means it should be tender yet still have a firm bite, allowing it to hold up well against the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside so they’re ready to absorb that delicious Alfredo sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil along with half of the butter. Add the shrimp and cook them for roughly 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a vibrant pink color and are cooked through but still juicy. This quick cooking keeps the shrimp tender without making them rubbery. Once done, transfer the shrimp onto a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and gently sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant – this usually takes about a minute. This step infuses the butter with that lovely garlic aroma that will carry throughout the sauce, creating an irresistible base.
Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. This slow heat helps thicken the cream without scorching it. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and turns silky smooth, perfectly coating every noodle and shrimp.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet with the sauce, tossing carefully so each strand is luxuriously covered. Return the shrimp to the pan and gently fold everything together, warming the shrimp through and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
How to Serve Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the finished dish to add a vibrant pop of color and a fresh burst of herbal flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. For a little extra flair, freshly grated Parmesan on top never hurts.
Side Dishes
To complement your creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a warm, crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of the sauce. These sides bring balance and texture to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, plate your pasta delicately twirled into nests on each plate, topped with a few shrimp artfully arranged. Drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon zest shavings for a bright finishing touch that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe will keep well for up to 2 days, but remember the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, so try to eat leftovers sooner rather than later.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky because the sauce might separate. For best results, freeze just the cooked shrimp and pasta separately from the sauce if you want to prepare in advance. When ready to serve, thaw completely and gently reheat with freshly made sauce or combine with stored sauce heated on low.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Adding a splash of cream or milk helps to restore the sauce’s creamy texture and prevents it from drying out or clumping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming in the pan.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce calories while still maintaining a creamy texture. Also, cutting back on butter slightly helps lighten the dish.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Cook the sauce over low to medium heat and avoid boiling once the cream and cheese are added. Gentle stirring will keep the sauce smooth and silky.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms make wonderful additions that add freshness and texture, just toss them in when you add the pasta to the sauce.
What wine pairs well with Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and delicate shrimp without overpowering the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is a dreamy blend of creamy, garlicky comfort with a hint of elegance thanks to the shrimp. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy each luscious bite that will surely make this recipe one of your favorites to come back to again and again.
Print
Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious and creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with succulent shrimp, cooked to perfection in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This classic Italian-American dish features tender fettuccine pasta tossed with garlic-infused buttery sauce and plump shrimp, garnished with fresh parsley for a perfect meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Shrimp & Protein
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce thoroughly.
- Combine shrimp and pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley before serving immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- To prevent overcooking, remove shrimp from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
