Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe for Easy Family Dinner

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Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to bring a little Italian-inspired comfort to your family table tonight? There’s something truly special about a creamy pasta dish shared with the people you love. This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe is one of those timeless meals that feels both elegant and comforting at the same time. With tender shrimp, silky fettuccine, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, every bite is pure satisfaction.

This dish has roots in traditional Italian cooking, where simple, high-quality ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. While Alfredo sauce has evolved over time, the heart of the recipe remains the same—creaminess balanced with gentle seasoning and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of meal that works beautifully for a cozy weeknight dinner, yet is impressive enough for guests. Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a reliable favorite for busy families.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and prepare this delicious classic together!

Table of Contents

Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Introduction

The beauty of this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Fresh shrimp are lightly seasoned and sautéed until just pink and tender. Meanwhile, fettuccine cooks to al dente perfection, ready to soak up the luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. The sauce itself is a traditional blend of butter, heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, gently simmered until thick and silky.

When combined, the flavors are harmonious—savory shrimp, creamy sauce, delicate garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta. A sprinkle of parsley and extra Parmesan on top adds a final touch of freshness and richness. This dish celebrates tradition while being wonderfully approachable for the home cook.

Whether you’re cooking for your children, your partner, or a table full of friends, this recipe invites everyone to slow down and savor a comforting homemade meal.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp:

12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine pasta
1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for gentle warmth)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
A pinch of nutmeg (optional, traditional touch)

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. This ensures they develop good flavor while cooking.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted and warm, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it, as garlic can turn bitter.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
Add 4 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and allow it to simmer for 3–4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Keep the heat at medium-low to avoid boiling.
Add the Cheese
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. The sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Return the Shrimp
Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer to serving plates or a large serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. 🍝🍤

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
Do not overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes to turn pink and tender.
For a lighter variation, you may substitute half-and-half for part of the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables if desired.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving)

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 620 kcal | 🍽️ Servings: 4

Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Cholesterol: 210 mg
Sodium: 680 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe provides a satisfying balance of protein from the shrimp and carbohydrates from the pasta, along with the comforting richness of traditional Alfredo sauce. While indulgent, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when served with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. 🥗

There is something truly heartwarming about placing a generous bowl of creamy pasta in front of your loved ones. The aroma of garlic and butter, the sight of tender shrimp nestled in silky noodles, and the first comforting bite all come together to create a memorable mealtime experience. This recipe honors traditional flavors while keeping preparation simple enough for any home kitchen.

So gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite music, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of cooking. Good food has a beautiful way of bringing people closer, and this creamy classic is sure to become a treasured favorite in your home.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!

FAQs for Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp sauté properly and prevents extra water from thinning your Alfredo sauce. Properly thawed frozen shrimp work just as well as fresh in this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe.

2. How do I prevent Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?

If your Alfredo sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water, warm milk, or a little cream while stirring. Always keep the heat on medium-low and avoid boiling the sauce. Slow simmering keeps the texture silky and smooth. In this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe, the reserved pasta water works best because it helps the sauce cling beautifully to the fettuccine.

3. Can I make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare it ahead, but this dish tastes best fresh. If you need to make it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become firm if cooked too long.

4. What vegetables go well with Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe?

Several vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish. Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus add color and balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce. You can stir them directly into the pasta or serve them on the side. Adding vegetables makes the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe more balanced while keeping its comforting flavor.

5. What is the best cheese for authentic Alfredo sauce?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best. It melts smoothly and creates a rich, creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese because it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. High-quality Parmesan makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor of your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe.

Table of Contents

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe Introduction