If you are craving a creamy, luscious pasta dish that brings the tastes of Italy right into your kitchen, this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender shrimp with fresh fettuccine noodles drenched in a velvety, cheesy Alfredo sauce that is both rich and comforting. The balance of garlic, Parmesan, and cream cheese creates a sauce that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy every craving for a silky, satisfying pasta experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy consistency. Fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples come together harmoniously to make this dish shine.
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp add a succulent seafood touch and protein to the dish.
- 300 grams fresh fettuccine pasta: Fresh pasta cooks quickly and provides a tender, silky base for the sauce to cling to.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing shrimp to a juicy, golden finish without overpowering flavors.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Adds sharp, nutty flavors and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese: Creates a smooth and rich texture that’s the heart of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley: Introduces fresh, herbaceous brightness and color contrast.
- 1/3 cup fresh mozzarella cheese (optional for the bake): Gives a melty, golden finish if you choose to bake the dish.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions: Onions add sweetness and help build a flavorful base during sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides mild heat and enhances the overall taste complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of every component.
- 1/2 tablespoon salt flakes (to taste): Optional finishing salt flakes for a subtle crunch and punch of saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates the creamy foundation that makes this Alfredo sauce so dreamy.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and helps meld all sauce ingredients smoothly together.
How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil and adding a teaspoon of salt. Fresh fettuccine only needs about 3 minutes to cook until just tender but still firm to the bite, which is perfect for holding the sauce without turning mushy. Drain the pasta carefully, but do not rinse it; keeping that starch on the noodles helps the sauce stick beautifully later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook them until they turn a vibrant orange-pink color and are just cooked through—roughly 2 to 3 minutes. This quick sear keeps them juicy and tender, the perfect protein complement to your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Next, toss in the minced garlic, finely chopped onions, and parsley. Stir and cook these aromatics until the onions soften and the garlic releases its warm fragrance—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key for layering mellow sweetness and herbaceous notes under the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat slightly before stirring in the melted butter, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy, around 2 minutes. The cream cheese adds body and tanginess, while heavy cream makes the sauce decadently silky.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper, stirring well as the sauce begins to thicken. This step enhances the cheesy depth and balances the cream’s richness with a little sharpness. The sauce comes together quickly here, so keep it moving!
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat every strand with that gorgeous Alfredo sauce. Taste the pasta and season with salt flakes to your preference. These salt flakes add a delightful crunch and elevate the dish’s final seasoning.
Step 7: Optional Baked Twist
If you want an extra indulgent touch, top your Alfredo with chopped fresh mozzarella and place it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. This results in a bubbling, golden crust that adds a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy pasta and tender shrimp.
How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley finely chopped is an easy garnish that injects a pop of vibrant green, adding visual appeal and a fresh herbal lift to every bite. For more depth, consider a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even a few chili flakes if you enjoy a hint of heat with your creamy pasta.
Side Dishes
Pair this shrimp fettuccine Alfredo recipe with a crisp, refreshing salad—like a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil—to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Light steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus work wonderfully too, adding a nutrient boost and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pasta in shallow bowls to show off the saucy noodles and plump shrimp beautifully. For dinner parties, garnish each plate with a lemon wedge to brighten the flavors as diners desire. Or try plating with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture and sophistication.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp fettuccine Alfredo should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh as the creamy sauce thickens and changes texture over time.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat leftover Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce while stirring frequently. Microwave reheating can work but may cause separation; low and slow stovetop warming ensures the best creamy texture is maintained.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely without steaming. Frozen shrimp can be a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The classic Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe uses fresh wheat pasta, so it isn’t gluten-free. However, you can substitute with gluten-free fettuccine noodles available at most grocery stores to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce without cream cheese?
You can, but cream cheese adds a unique silkiness and slight tang that balances the rich cream perfectly. If you skip it, consider increasing the Parmesan for added flavor and using more heavy cream for texture.
How spicy is the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe?
There’s no inherent spiciness, but black pepper adds a gentle warmth. You can easily customize its heat level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you prefer a kick.
What can I use instead of fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried Italian herbs, fresh basil, or even a light sprinkle of chives can work in a pinch. Fresh parsley, however, offers the best freshness and color contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but comes together quickly enough for weeknight dinners. Its creamy, comforting sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and tender pasta makes for a meal that delights every time. I hope you have as much fun making it and enjoying every luscious bite as I do. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and onions, tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Cooked fresh fettuccine is coated in the luscious sauce and optionally baked with mozzarella for a bubbly, golden finish. Ready in just 22 minutes, this recipe brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your table quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20–25 pieces)
- 300 grams fresh fettuccine pasta
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (from an 8 oz package)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
- 1/2 tablespoon salt flakes (to taste, for final seasoning)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Topping
- 1/3 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the fresh fettuccine pasta and cook until al dente, about 3 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside without rinsing to preserve the starch for better sauce adherence.
- Sauté the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn orange and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, finely chopped onions, and parsley. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness and flavor.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: Stir in melted butter, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream into the skillet. Cook and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ground black pepper to the sauce. Stir for about 1 minute until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss pasta and adjust seasoning: Add the cooked fettuccine and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Season with salt flakes to taste for a final flavor boost.
- Optional baking step: If desired, top the pasta with chopped fresh mozzarella and place the skillet under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a golden bubbly crust. Remove carefully and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh fettuccine for the best texture, but dried pasta can be substituted with adjusted cooking time.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Skip the baking step for a quicker stovetop version.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor than pre-grated packets.
- Adjust salt flakes at the end to avoid over-salting, especially since Parmesan adds saltiness.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best consistency.
