Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo – Creamy, Garlicky & Restaurant-Worthy Comfort
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a luxurious pasta dish that combines tender fettuccine noodles with succulent shrimp, all coated in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home—perfect for romantic dinners, family meals, or when you want to treat yourself to something special. With just a handful of ingredients and bold flavor in every bite, this recipe brings classic Italian comfort with a seafood twist.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Microplane or grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Optional: colander, garlic press
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg, red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or chili flakes.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese may cause graininess.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook fast and turn rubbery if left too long.
- Reserve pasta water—it’s your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Want to lighten it up? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or add steamed veggies for balance.