If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s indulgent, satisfying, and packed with delightful flavors, this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender fettuccine noodles drenched in a buttery, creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly topped with juicy, garlicky shrimp that add just the right hint of the sea. It’s a classic Italian-American dish reimagined with succulent seafood for a meal that’s comforting yet elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a sensational dish that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich, harmonious flavors and textures that make this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe so irresistible.
- Fettuccine pasta (12 ounces): Provides the perfect broad ribbons to hold on to every bit of sauce.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Offers a tender, protein-packed topping bursting with flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps to cook shrimp evenly without sticking.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Essential for creating that silky, creamy sauce and sautéing garlic and shrimp.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Delivers aromatic depth and a savory punch that elevates the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and decadent.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Gives a sharp, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the Alfredo sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a touch of warmth and spice.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Brings a subtle kick for those who love some heat.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Provides freshness and a pop of color as the final touch.
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your fettuccine in a large pot of well-salted boiling water. Follow the package directions and aim for al dente – this texture keeps the noodles from becoming mushy and ensures they hold the Alfredo sauce beautifully later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a lovely shade of pink. Be careful not to overcook — shrimp should be tender and juicy. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the crushed red pepper flakes. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens up and becomes beautifully smooth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Drain the cooked fettuccine and toss it directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Mix well so every strand is coated with creamy goodness. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir gently until everything is heated through and perfectly combined.
How to Serve Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only adds a lovely burst of color but also a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the dish. For a bit of extra indulgence, grated Parmesan can be offered at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs exceptionally well with crisp garlic bread, which soaks up any leftover sauce like a charm. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp in individual shallow bowls topped with a lemon wedge to squeeze over the top. You can also toss in sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of sautéed spinach for added color and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools; stirring in a splash of cream or milk while reheating helps restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal since creamy sauces can separate. If you want to freeze it, slightly undercook the pasta and keep the sauce and shrimp separate. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk, stirring frequently to avoid curdling. Reheat shrimp carefully to prevent toughness—briefly warming them in the sauce is your best bet.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Is it possible to make a lighter version of this recipe?
Absolutely. You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, which lightens the sauce but keeps it creamy and delicious.
What wine pairs well with Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the rich creaminess and enhances the shrimp’s sweetness wonderfully.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes can be stirred in for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from breaking?
Simmer the sauce gently without boiling vigorously, and add the cheese gradually while stirring continuously to maintain that smooth, velvety texture.
Final Thoughts
This Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a touch of restaurant-quality elegance right into your home kitchen. Its rich, creamy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp creates a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So next time you want to impress yourself or a loved one, give this recipe a whirl – I promise it’ll become a cherished favorite! Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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
This delicious Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp combines tender pasta with succulent shrimp in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress with its blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Fettuccine and Shrimp
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Sauce
- 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 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. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken and Flavor: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and achieves a smooth consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Finish with Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Stir everything together and heat through for a minute or two.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately, pairing with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Remove shrimp from the pan as soon as they turn pink to prevent overcooking.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest consistency.
- Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a balanced meal.
