If you are craving a dish that combines creamy indulgence with fresh, tender seafood, you have to try this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe. It’s a comforting, luscious meal where perfectly cooked shrimp meet rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce, all clinging to silky fettuccine noodles. This recipe strikes the ideal balance—rich without being heavy, flavorful without overpowering—making it a favorite for those memorable dinners with family or friends. Once you taste this, it will quickly become your go-to recipe for a delightful, satisfying pasta night.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the butter’s creamy richness to the shrimp’s subtle sweetness, every component plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds a silky base and helps build richness for the sauce and shrimp.
Large shrimp (16 ounces): Peeled and deveined for convenience, providing tender seafood bites throughout.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
Chicken broth (16 ounces): Lightens the sauce and adds savory complexity.
Whole milk (8 ounces): Contributes creaminess without weighing the sauce down.
Dry fettuccine noodles (8 ounces): The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates all flavors naturally.
Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and balance.
Nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon): A hint of spice that complements the creamy Alfredo beautifully.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): For that iconic cheesy tang and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Heavy cream (4 ounces): Enriches the sauce to a velvety, luxurious finish.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Start by heating two tablespoons of butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and beautifully pink. Don’t overcook—this keeps them tender and juicy. After cooking, remove the shrimp and set them aside, allowing the pan to retain those flavorful bits for the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just long enough for the garlic to release its heavenly aroma, without letting it brown and turn bitter. Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, then add your dry fettuccine noodles. Season the mixture lightly with kosher salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cover and let everything simmer gently for about 11 minutes. This step cooks the noodles right in the sauce base, allowing them to soak up that flavor while reaching the perfect al dente texture.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Once the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in a generous cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and luxurious. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss gently so every strand of fettuccine is coated in cheesy, garlicky goodness. Give the dish about 5 minutes off the heat to thicken and let all those flavors harmonize before serving.

How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe even more stunning, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or basil over the top. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a few grinds of fresh black pepper adds a finishing touch that makes each bite pop. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the creamy richness if you want a bit of zing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce. For a veggie side, roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli provide color and a welcome textural contrast that complements the shrimp and pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe in shallow bowls with the shrimp artfully arranged on top. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Alternatively, plate it family-style in a large dish with rustic bread on the side, encouraging everyone to dig in and share the love of this delicious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which you might, but probably won’t for long), store the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days—but enjoy it sooner to relish the creamy sauce at its best.

Freezing

Freezing creamy sauces can be tricky, so it’s best not to freeze the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe once fully prepared. Instead, consider freezing the shrimp and cooked pasta separately if needed; reheat them gently and then combine to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. This prevents the sauce from breaking and helps bring the dish back to its original dreamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.

What type of pasta works best in this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe?

Fettuccine is ideal since its flat, wide shape holds the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully, creating the classic mouthfeel everyone loves.

Is there a lighter way to make this Alfredo sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or reduce the butter slightly, but keep in mind that some richness is key to capturing that authentic Alfredo flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, but be prepared for a slightly different taste and texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy?

Stir frequently while adding the cheese and cream, and adjust consistency with a little extra broth or milk if necessary. Taking the pan off heat while thickening also helps maintain a smooth sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is truly a joyful celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe