If you’re craving a dish that’s indulgently creamy, packed with tender shrimp, and incredibly satisfying, then you’ve just found it with this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels elegant enough for guests but is truly simple enough for any home cook to whip up without stress. The luscious sauce blends cream cheese, parmesan, and garlic into a silky embrace for al dente fettuccine, all topped with juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites whenever comfort food calls your name.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward and each plays a crucial role in building the richness, flavor, and texture of this dish. From the creamy cheeses to the fresh shrimp and aromatic garlic, every component contributes something special that makes this recipe shine.
- Shrimp (1 pound, thawed and peeled): The star of the show, shrimp add a juicy, tender bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Fettuccine (8 ounces): This broad pasta holds the sauce perfectly for every forkful.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a silky base and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Creates that luscious, velvety texture that defines this Alfredo sauce.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Gives richness and smoothness, helping to marry all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Lightens and balances the creaminess, adding subtle savory notes.
- Garlic (2 large cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with warmth and aromatic depth.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated): Brings a salty, nutty dimension that’s essential for authentic Alfredo flavor.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): For seasoning that brightens and rounds out the dish perfectly.
How to Make Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by preparing your shrimp: if they’re frozen, simply thaw them quickly by running under cool water while in a colander. Make sure they’re peeled, and tails off if you prefer, so that every bite is easy to enjoy without fuss. Having them ready upfront sets the stage for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your fettuccine. Cook it until just al dente according to the package directions—it’s important not to overcook so the pasta maintains a nice bite to hold up against the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside for the final toss.
Step 3: Start the Sauce
In a skillet set to medium heat, add the butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, and minced garlic. As the butter melts and the pan warms, stir often to help the cream cheese break down smoothly into the sauce. This step is where the magic happens—the sauce thickens and becomes the creamy foundation for the dish. It usually takes a few minutes here, so be patient and keep that stirring spoon close.
Step 4: Simmer and Reduce
Once the cream cheese has incorporated into the creamy mixture, let the sauce gently bubble for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This simmering step reduces and concentrates the flavors, making the sauce perfectly rich without being too runny. Meanwhile, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh to bring maximum flavor to the next phase.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir the freshly grated Parmesan into the sauce and allow it to cook for another minute. This step thickens the sauce further and adds that classic sharp, nutty taste that defines Alfredo. It’s the final step before adding the shrimp and pasta, so your sauce is creamy and luscious here.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp directly to the skillet with the sauce, cooking them for 5 to 6 minutes while stirring occasionally. The shrimp will turn a beautiful pink and become tender and juicy, soaking in the garlicky, cheesy sauce flavors. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook, as shrimp cook very quickly!
Step 7: Combine and Season
Finally, season the sauce and shrimp with salt and pepper to taste, then toss in the cooked fettuccine until it’s all wonderfully coated and glossy. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy textures and fresh flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate this dish by adding finely chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few grinds of black pepper right at the end also add delightful finishing touches that brighten the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Side Dishes
This shrimp Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests or treat yourself by serving the shrimp Alfredo in shallow pasta bowls with a lemon wedge for squeezing over the top, adding a zesty contrast. Alternately, plate it alongside roasted vegetables or asparagus for extra texture and color on the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shrimp Alfredo should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy meal to enjoy again without repeating the entire cooking process.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, note that Alfredo sauce can separate slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately if possible, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and ensure the shrimp stays tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully under cool running water before cooking, as this prevents any uneven cooking and preserves their texture well.
What type of cream cheese works best?
Use regular cream cheese that’s softened for easiest melting. You can cut it into smaller pieces before adding to the pan to help it incorporate quickly and smoothly into the sauce.
Is heavy cream necessary, or can I substitute?
Heavy cream provides that rich, velvety texture crucial for Alfredo sauce, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less creamy and luxurious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Dairy-free adaptations are possible by using plant-based cream cheese, non-dairy milk like cashew cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. However, the flavor and texture will be different from the traditional dish.
What pasta types work besides fettuccine?
While fettuccine holds sauce beautifully, other pasta shapes like linguine, penne, or even pappardelle offer great alternatives—choose your favorite shape to personalize this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s a genuine reason this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a beloved classic in so many kitchens. It hits every note you want in a comforting pasta dish: creamy, flavorful, quick to prepare, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a special solo dinner, this recipe promises to deliver joy in every bite. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp and pasta!
Print
Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A creamy and delicious Easy Shrimp Alfredo recipe with tender shrimp and a rich homemade sauce made from cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan, tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound uncooked (31-40/pound size) shrimp, thawed and peeled (tails optional)
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened and cut into smaller pieces)
- 3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the shrimp: If your shrimp are frozen, place them in a colander and run under cool water until fully thawed. Peel and devein if not already done, leaving tails on or off as preferred.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Start the sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, combine butter, softened cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally as the butter melts and the cream cheese gradually melts into a creamy sauce; this will take a couple of minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Once cream cheese is fully incorporated, let the sauce gently bubble for 5 minutes while thickening slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Use this time to grate your parmesan cheese.
- Add parmesan: Stir the freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce and cook for about one minute until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the thawed shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Season and combine: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the cooked and drained fettuccine into the skillet with the shrimp sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
