Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, indulgent, and comforting dish that combines tender, succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian-American favorite is beloved for its luxurious texture and bold flavors, offering a satisfying balance between the sweetness of the shrimp and the buttery, garlicky creaminess of the sauce.

It’s a dish that feels elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a versatile addition to any menu. What makes Shrimp Alfredo Pasta truly special is the harmony of flavors and textures. The tender shrimp provide a delicate, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, creating a comforting and indulgent bite with each forkful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta recipe because it delivers the perfect combination of creamy, indulgent sauce and tender, flavorful shrimp. Each bite is rich and satisfying, with the garlicky, buttery Alfredo sauce coating the pasta beautifully while complementing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The dish feels indulgent yet approachable, making it perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a must-try dish because it transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, flavorful, and comforting meal. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender shrimp, creating a balance of richness and freshness that appeals to both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts. Its indulgent texture and bold flavor make it a standout dish for dinners that need to impress, yet it remains approachable enough for casual family meals.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 550 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

• 400 g fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 450 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Cooking Directions

Shrimp are sautéed until pink and tender, then combined with a creamy garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Cooked pasta is tossed in the sauce, coating each strand evenly, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
8. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve Shrimp Alfredo Pasta hot on a large plate or bowl. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
• Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• Toss pasta in the sauce immediately after cooking for best coating.

Variations

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Alfredo
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
Season the shrimp with Cajun spices for a bold, spicy flavor.

Vegetable Shrimp Alfredo
Add steamed broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to the pasta for extra color and nutrition.

Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
Combine cooked chicken breast with shrimp for a protein-packed variation.

Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover Shrimp Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, as the texture may separate upon reheating. It is best prepared fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Conclusion

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings the richness of Italian cuisine to your table. With tender shrimp, a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it is a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and versatile, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone who enjoys a rich, indulgent pasta dinner.