If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish loaded with tender shrimp and decadent Alfredo sauce, this One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic, and it’s all made in one pan for easy cleanup!
Why This Recipe Is a Game Changer
Shrimp Alfredo is a classic Italian-American comfort food. But traditional recipes often require multiple pots and a lengthy cooking process. This one-pan version simplifies everything by combining pasta, sauce, and shrimp in one skillet, which means less mess and faster prep. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients and homemade sauce that’s way better than store-bought jarred Alfredo.
What Makes This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo So Special?
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One-pan convenience: No need to boil pasta separately or dirty multiple pots.
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Rich, creamy sauce: Made with heavy cream, butter, Parmesan, and a touch of milk for perfect texture.
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Fresh shrimp: Juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked right in the sauce.
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Garlic flavor: Adds depth without overpowering the creamy richness.
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Easy to customize: Add veggies or spice it up to suit your tastes.
Short Overview
Tender shrimp and fettuccine swim in a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic — all cooked together for quick, mouthwatering comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need (with US Measurements)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp, peeled & deveined | 1 lb (about 16-20 shrimp) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Fettuccine pasta | 8 oz (about half a standard box) |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Whole milk | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream | 1½ cups |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Nutmeg (optional) | Pinch |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Mince your garlic finely for maximum flavor. Measure out all other ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or shrimp will get rubbery! Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Melt Butter
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned — burnt garlic will turn bitter.
Step 4: Add Liquids for the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, ½ cup whole milk, and 1½ cups heavy cream. Stir gently to combine. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to start thickening.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Parmesan
Break the fettuccine noodles in half if needed to fit in the pan. Add noodles to the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Add salt and black pepper to taste. For an extra touch of warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg (optional). Nutmeg complements creamy sauces beautifully, enhancing flavor without overpowering.
Step 7: Add the Shrimp Back In
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss gently to coat them with the creamy sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, but don’t cook shrimp longer or they’ll get tough.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Prep Time and Nutrition
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Prep Time: 35 minutes
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Servings: 4 generous portions
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Calories: Approximately 600 kcal per serving
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
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Shrimp selection: Fresh or thawed wild-caught shrimp taste best. If using frozen, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid watery sauce.
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Pasta choice: Fettuccine is classic, but linguine or tagliatelle work well too.
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Adjust sauce thickness: If sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it.
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Cheese quality matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior flavor and smooth melting.
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Don’t skip the garlic: It’s the flavor backbone that brightens the creaminess.
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Add veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
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Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
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Serve with crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
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Reheating: Gently warm leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta. Cook according to package instructions but watch closely, as gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster and can become mushy.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Definitely! Just thaw shrimp completely before cooking and pat dry. Avoid adding frozen shrimp directly to the skillet as it will release water and dilute the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to prevent sauce separation.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a creamy plant-based milk, but it will alter the flavor. Use dairy-free butter and vegan Parmesan alternatives for a fully dairy-free dish.
The History and Charm of Alfredo Sauce
Alfredo sauce originated in Rome, Italy, created by Alfredo di Lelio in the early 20th century. His original version was surprisingly simple, made from butter and Parmesan cheese, designed to be rich yet comforting. The creamy heavy cream addition became popularized later in America, evolving into the indulgent, velvety sauce we know today.
Shrimp Alfredo adds a coastal twist, pairing the delicate seafood flavor with the decadence of creamy pasta sauce — a favorite for special occasions or anytime you want restaurant-quality meals at home.
Pairing Suggestions
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Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess and shrimp nicely.
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Sides: A fresh Caesar salad or garlic roasted asparagus are excellent sides.
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Dessert: Finish with light lemon sorbet or a berry panna cotta to cleanse the palate.
Why One-Pan Recipes Are a Win in Busy Kitchens
One-pan meals like this shrimp fettuccine Alfredo save time and energy without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less stressing over dishes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort!
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo combines convenience, indulgence, and flavor in a beautiful, creamy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe will deliver comfort and delight on every forkful.