This easy shrimp Alfredo recipe is your go-to for a comforting yet elegant dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Creamy, rich, and packed with tender shrimp, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy date nights at home. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a quick homemade dinner with restaurant-style flair, this dish will hit the spot.
What Is Shrimp Alfredo?
Shrimp Alfredo is a classic pasta dish made with fettuccine tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce and topped with sautéed shrimp. It’s a seafood twist on the traditional fettuccine Alfredo, blending garlic-sautéed shrimp with a velvety cream sauce. This version keeps things simple with minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes
- Minimal ingredients: Pantry and fridge staples
- Restaurant-quality: Rich, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked shrimp
- Versatile: Great for weeknights or special occasions
- One-pan sauce: Less cleanup, more convenience
Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz) fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 300 g (10 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Everything
- Return the cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is coated and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions
This creamy shrimp Alfredo pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing Instructions
- Not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce can separate.
- If necessary, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly with added cream.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Low-carb version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Lighter sauce: Substitute half the cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Cheese swap: Try Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
What type of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free fettuccine or your favorite gluten-free pasta.
This easy shrimp Alfredo recipe is a creamy, satisfying pasta dish that brings big flavor with little effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Try it tonight and discover your new pasta-night favorite. Let us know how it turns out!
Print
Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This easy shrimp Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish made with tender shrimp, fettuccine, and a simple homemade Alfredo sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or impressive date-night meal.
Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz) fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 300 g (10 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Return the shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Plate immediately and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed and dried well) for best results.
- For a thinner sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Grate Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: ~520 kcal per serving (estimated)