Name: Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound fettuccine pasta; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream; 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This classic Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. With tender shrimp, a garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the kind of comforting, satisfying meal that works equally well for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elegant occasion. Simple ingredients and quick prep make this a go-to pasta dish you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity. It comes together in under an hour with basic pantry staples, yet it tastes like something from a fine Italian restaurant. The creamy Alfredo sauce is velvety and flavorful, while the shrimp add a light, briny contrast that keeps the dish balanced and crave-worthy. It’s family-friendly, fast, and incredibly satisfying.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fettuccine pasta
butter
cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
garlic, minced
half-and-half or heavy cream
grated Parmesan cheese
chopped fresh parsley
salt, to taste

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add shrimp and garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until the shrimp is just heated through and the garlic is fragrant.
Pour in the half-and-half, stirring to combine.
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, one tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt to taste. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the Alfredo sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per serving: 440 kcal

Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
Lemon Zest: Brighten up the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a bit of zest just before serving.
Swap the Pasta: Use linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne if you don’t have fettuccine.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the sauce and shrimp over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Protein Boost: Mix in grilled chicken or scallops for a seafood and poultry combo.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as it reheats. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as this can overcook the shrimp and separate the sauce. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce and delicate texture of shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked?

Yes. Sauté raw shrimp in butter for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.

What’s the best cream to use?

Half-and-half gives a lighter texture, while heavy cream creates a richer, thicker sauce. Use according to your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and prep the shrimp in advance to save time.

How do I thicken the Alfredo sauce?

Let the sauce simmer gently to reduce and thicken. Adding more Parmesan also helps create a thicker consistency.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but any pasta with surface area (like linguine or pappardelle) works well to hold the creamy sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley is classic, but basil or chives also pair nicely with the creamy sauce and shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless classic that combines rich flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender shrimp, this dish is as comforting as it is elegant. Perfect for date night, family dinners, or even a cozy solo meal, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.