Easy Shrimp Alfredo: Creamy, Delicious, and Perfect for Any Night

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Shrimp Alfredo is one of those classic dishes that feels indulgent and comforting yet comes together surprisingly quickly. If you’re craving creamy pasta with tender shrimp and a luscious garlic-infused sauce, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Easy Shrimp Alfredo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Alfredo combines tender, juicy shrimp with a rich Alfredo sauce made from simple ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Unlike some traditional Alfredo recipes that rely heavily on butter and cream alone, this version includes cream cheese to create an extra smooth, velvety texture without being overly heavy.

Plus, it’s flexible! You can swap the shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even vegetables, and it still tastes incredible. This dish is also quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to impress guests for a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Easy Shrimp Alfredo, with precise US measurements:

  • 1 lb raw shrimp (31–40 count), peeled and deveined – The star of the dish! Choose medium-sized shrimp for best texture.

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta (about half a box) – Traditional choice for Alfredo. You can substitute with linguine or spaghetti.

  • 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness to both the sauce and shrimp.

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (half a standard block) – Key to making the sauce ultra-creamy.

  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or whipping cream) – For that luscious, silky finish.

  • ¼ cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the cream.

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor.

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Fresh is better; pre-grated doesn’t melt as well.

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Seasoning makes all the difference.

  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a nice pop of color and freshness.

Step-By-Step Directions

Follow these clear, stage-by-stage instructions to create the perfect Easy Shrimp Alfredo:

Stage 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.

  2. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes) until al dente.

  3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve a little pasta water if needed to thin the sauce later.

Stage 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.

  3. Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the pan.

  4. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).

Stage 3: Add Cheese and Season

  1. Reduce heat to low.

  2. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

  3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.

  4. Keep the sauce warm, stirring occasionally, while you cook the shrimp.

Stage 4: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter or oil.

  2. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

  3. Season lightly with salt and pepper while cooking.

  4. Remove from heat.

Stage 5: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce and toss gently to coat every strand.

  2. Add the cooked shrimp on top or gently toss them into the pasta.

  3. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

  4. Serve immediately, while hot and creamy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

  • Calories per serving: ~680 kcal

  • Protein: 40g

  • Fat: 42g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a silky smooth sauce.

  • Don’t overheat the sauce or it may separate — keep it on low heat and whisk gently.

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook fast and become rubbery if left too long.

  • Feel free to add vegetables like steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach to boost nutrition and color.

  • For a lower-fat version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

  • Save a little pasta cooking water and add it to the sauce if it gets too thick.

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Variations to Try

  • Chicken Alfredo: Swap shrimp for grilled or sautéed chicken breast.

  • Seafood Alfredo: Mix shrimp with scallops, crab, or lobster for a decadent feast.

  • Veggie Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.

  • Garlic Parmesan Alfredo: Double the garlic for more pungent flavor lovers.

Why Shrimp Alfredo Is a Family Favorite

Shrimp Alfredo blends the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and subtly garlicky flavors that appeal to many palates. It’s rich enough to feel like a treat but straightforward enough for cooks of any skill level. Plus, shrimp is a lean protein, making this a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Families often enjoy this recipe because it can be ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Kids love the creamy pasta, and adults appreciate the sophisticated flavors. It also reheats well for next-day lunches.

What to Serve with Shrimp Alfredo

  • Garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

  • A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances richness.

  • Steamed or roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add freshness.

  • A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Easy Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious way to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal effort.

Try this recipe today and make your next dinner a special occasion without the fuss!

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