Name: Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy shrimp Alfredo is one of my favorite indulgent pasta dishes. I love how the tender shrimp pairs perfectly with a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but also special enough for a date night or dinner with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like that this dish feels both comforting and elegant. The shrimp cooks quickly, the sauce comes together in minutes, and the result is a creamy, cheesy pasta that tastes like something from a restaurant. I also love that I can customize it with different pasta shapes or add-ins, but the classic version never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic (minced)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
I heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
I add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. I remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, I add more butter if needed and sauté garlic until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
I stir in Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I season with more salt and pepper to taste.
I add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the sauce.
I garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so I plan for about 30 minutes total.

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.
For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
If I want even more richness, I stir in a spoonful of cream cheese with the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving for too long since shrimp can overcook quickly.

FAQs

How do I keep Alfredo sauce from separating?

I keep the heat low and stir continuously. Adding freshly grated Parmesan helps the sauce stay smooth.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp. I thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking.

What pasta works best for Alfredo?

I prefer fettuccine, but linguine, spaghetti, or even penne all work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I don’t recommend making it fully ahead because shrimp can overcook. Instead, I prep the sauce and pasta, then cook the shrimp fresh before serving.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. I suggest using whole milk and adding a little cream cheese or extra Parmesan for creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy shrimp Alfredo is one of my go-to dishes when I want something decadent and comforting. I love the balance of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether I make it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it always feels like a restaurant-worthy meal made right at home.