If you’re craving a classic Italian indulgence that’s bursting with creamy, savory goodness, this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. Picture perfectly cooked fettuccine coated in a luscious, velvety Alfredo sauce, studded with tender, golden shrimp that add a pop of flavor and texture that simply can’t be beat. This dish is a beautiful balance of richness and freshness, with garlic and white wine elevating every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe hits all the right notes and feels fancy without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe is essential because each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the pasta that provides comforting carby goodness to the shrimp that gives it a juicy, delicate bite, every component shines in its simplicity.
- 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape; fettuccine holds the creamy sauce brilliantly.
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined): Freshness is key for succulent, flavorful seafood that cooks to perfection.
- 1 Tbsp oil: Helps sear the shrimp for that irresistible golden crust.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich base and smooth texture for the sauce.
- 1 garlic clove: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1/3 cup white wine (preferably a dry white like Chardonnay): Brightens the sauce and lifts the richness.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: The soul of Alfredo—creamy, dreamy, and indulgent.
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty goodness and thickens the sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
- Sprinkle of paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Parsley or basil for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch as a finishing flourish.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling salted water and cooking your fettuccine or penne according to the package instructions. Be sure to drain but don’t rinse the noodles because the starches help your Alfredo sauce cling to every strand, making each bite silky and satisfying.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp for Flavor and Texture
Lightly season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they’re golden pink and opaque. The key here is not to overcook or they’ll turn rubbery—tenderness is what we want. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl while you move on.
Step 3: Build Your Flavor Base
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns a lovely golden hue. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and reduce it until it’s about 25 percent of its volume, scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. This deglazing adds incredible depth to your sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy whipping cream. Let it simmer gently for two minutes before sprinkling in the parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and velvety—remember, don’t let it boil or the cheese will separate and the texture won’t be right. Add a pinch of paprika and season with salt and pepper to get that perfect balance.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Finally, add your cooked shrimp along with the drained pasta straight into the sauce. Toss everything delicately so each piece is lovingly coated. Serve it immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of parmesan or freshly cracked pepper if you like. Now you’re ready to dig into pure comfort in a plate!
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds a burst of color but also a herbaceous twist that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. If you want a bit of extra zing, try a few red pepper flakes or a dash of lemon zest to brighten things up.
Side Dishes
This rich dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad featuring peppery arugula or a simple Caesar salad for some crunch. Garlic bread or warm focaccia is also a dream partner, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe in individual small bowls or even elegant pasta cups. You could also layer it in a shallow baking dish, sprinkle with extra parmesan, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust on top. Perfect for impressing guests without extra hassle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp and pasta will absorb more of the sauce’s flavor, but the texture remains delightful if stored properly.
Freezing
Because of the cream sauce, freezing Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe isn’t ideal as the texture of the sauce can change and become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, store it without the shrimp and add freshly cooked shrimp when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the sauce from separating and the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta besides fettuccine or penne?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are traditional choices for Alfredo, feel free to use linguine, spaghetti, or even shells—the key is choosing a pasta that holds the sauce well.
What if I’m not a fan of white wine—can I skip it?
Yes, the wine adds depth and acidity but you can substitute it with a little chicken broth or just water. The sauce will still be delicious, just slightly less complex.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine, use coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and pick a vegan parmesan alternative. The sauce will taste different but still rich and satisfying.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Frozen shrimp works fine as long as it’s thoroughly thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce consistency.
Is this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats well for lunches or dinners but keep the sauce creamy by reheating slowly on the stove and adding a little extra liquid if needed to maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food done right—luxurious and satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to pull together. Next time you want to wow your family or treat yourself to something special, this dish will deliver every time. So get that skillet heating, and enjoy the creamy, dreamy magic of homemade Alfredo with succulent shrimp that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. Happy cooking!
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Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe features succulent shrimp cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce, served over fettuccine or penne pasta. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 Tbsp oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sprinkle of paprika
Sauce
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/3 cup white wine (Ste Chapelle Chardonnay or similar)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Approximately 1/4 tsp paprika
Garnish
- Parsley or basil (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it to help the sauce adhere better.
- Cook Shrimp: Lightly season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn golden/pink on the outside and opaque white inside. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 2 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until golden and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Reduce: Pour in 1/3 cup white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Allow the wine to reduce by about 75%, intensifying the flavor.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in 2 cups heavy whipping cream and simmer gently for 2 minutes. Sprinkle in 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Be careful not to boil the sauce to prevent cheese from separating. Season with salt, pepper, and approximately 1/4 tsp paprika.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, extra Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not rinse pasta after draining to help sauce stick better.
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Do not boil the Alfredo sauce once cheese is added to prevent separation.
- White wine adds depth but can be omitted or substituted with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil enhance flavor but are optional.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best taste and melting quality.
