How to Make Shrimp Alfredo: 15-Minute Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe 🍤

Shrimp Alfredo is a luxurious yet incredibly simple dish that brings together the rich, creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with the delicate sweetness of shrimp.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this recipe will have you enjoying restaurant-quality Alfredo in just 15 minutes.

Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to creating a delicious Shrimp Alfredo right in your kitchen.

Shrimp Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts.

The combination of tender shrimp and creamy Alfredo sauce over a bed of pasta is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this 15-minute recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and foolproof.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, ensuring you can create a mouth-watering Shrimp Alfredo that will impress anyone at your table.

Ingredients

Before we start cooking, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need:

8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

This typically takes around 8-10 minutes.

Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Tossing it with a little bit of olive oil can help prevent the noodles from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp.

If your shrimp are not already peeled and deveined, do so now.

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly.

Season them lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

This simple seasoning will enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp without overpowering the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.

Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Be sure not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of milk or more cream to reach your desired consistency.

Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.

Use tongs or a pasta fork to toss the pasta in the sauce until it is evenly coated.

Make sure the pasta is well-mixed with the sauce so that every bite is deliciously creamy.

If the pasta has cooled down too much, you can gently reheat it in the skillet over low heat.

Step 7: Add the Shrimp

Once the pasta is thoroughly coated in the Alfredo sauce, add the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet.

Toss everything together gently to ensure the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

The shrimp should be heated through and coated with the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the Shrimp Alfredo just before serving.

This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a subtle herbaceous note.

Serve the Shrimp Alfredo immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a hint of citrus to balance the richness of the sauce.

Step 9: Pair with a Side

While Shrimp Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

A crisp Caesar salad or a side of sautéed asparagus can complement the creamy pasta and add a refreshing contrast.

Additionally, a slice of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate.

Step 10: Enjoy Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, Shrimp Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the shrimp to become overcooked and rubbery.

Step 11: Experiment with Variations

Feel free to experiment with different variations of this recipe.

You can substitute the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood for a different twist.

Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can also enhance the dish and add extra nutrition.

Customize the Alfredo sauce by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices.

Step 12: Try Different Pasta Types

While fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices for Alfredo, you can use other types of pasta as well.

Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti can work wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options are also available for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. The key is to choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.