Shrimp Alfredo Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces fettuccine pasta; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

When I first tried making Shrimp Alfredo Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce, I was blown away by how rich and satisfying the dish could be. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy sauce was a true revelation. This recipe quickly became a staple in our household because it’s not only delicious but also simple to whip up, even on busy weeknights. I love how the fragrant garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates the whole meal, making it feel like a special occasion every time we sit down to enjoy it.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:29:36.866Z

My journey with Shrimp Alfredo began when I was trying to recreate a memorable dish from a local restaurant. Each bite of creamy sauce paired with garlic and perfectly cooked shrimp transported me back. I was determined to nail that unforgettable flavor at home. After several attempts, I discovered that using freshly minced garlic and high-quality shrimp truly made a difference. The flavors meld beautifully, and I ended up creating a family favorite.

One of the best tips I can share is to ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing it with the sauce. This ensures each bite retains the perfect texture, creating a lovely contrast with the creaminess. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water; it helps to make the sauce cling to the pasta just right!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that enhances the flavors of the shrimp
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Comfort food that feels gourmet without the fuss

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is undoubtedly the shrimp. Choosing fresh, quality shrimp not only enhances the dish's flavor but also contributes to the overall texture. When selecting shrimp, opt for those that are firm to the touch and have a slight sea scent. If fresh isn't available, frozen shrimp are a great substitute—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to avoid a rubbery texture.

Fettuccine is the traditional pasta choice for Alfredo, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like penne or linguine. The key is to select a pasta shape that will hold onto the creamy sauce well. Cooking it to al dente ensures that it retains some bite, which contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the garlic cream sauce.

The Science of the Garlic Cream Sauce

The garlic cream sauce is where the magic happens. Cooking the garlic just until fragrant is crucial to prevent bitterness; if it browns, it will negatively affect the sauce's flavor. Once the cream is added, a gentle simmer allows the sauce to thicken without curdling, so keep the heat moderate. Stirring in Parmesan cheese will bring a nutty flavor and creamy consistency, enriching the overall dish.

If the sauce appears too thick after adding the cheese, don’t hesitate to loosen it with a bit of reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, enhancing its creaminess and ensuring a perfect cling to the pasta. Always taste and adjust for salt and pepper to enhance the dish's final flavor—it's a step that makes a big difference.

Tips for the Perfect Finish

Once you've combined the pasta with the sauce and shrimp, a quick toss in the skillet over low heat helps meld flavors. This step is essential for a cohesive dish; just a couple of minutes should suffice. Look for the sauce to glaze the pasta evenly without being overly oily. To elevate the presentation, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch that contrasts nicely against the creamy backdrop.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to maintain that creamy consistency. For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables, like spinach or peas, to the mix for added nutrition and color during the last moments of cooking!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta:

Ingredients

12 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect Shrimp Alfredo:

Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine Ingredients

Toss the cooked fettuccine in the garlic cream sauce. Add shrimp back into the skillet and mix until everything is coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your delicious Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic cream sauce. This will give your dish a subtle heat that complements the richness beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is an opportunity to get creative. Pair it with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. A piece of crusty garlic bread can also help soak up the leftover sauce—there's nothing better than a little extra indulgence!

For a more gourmet experience, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of truffle oil right before serving. These additions will impart layers of flavor that elevate the dish from a weeknight meal to something truly special.

Dietary Modifications

For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a 1:1 blend of Greek yogurt and milk. This will still retain a creamy texture but with reduced fat content. If you're looking for a vegan adaptation, swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu, and use coconut cream or a cashew cream for the sauce.

Those with dairy sensitivities can opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesier flavor without the lactose. This adjustment adds a lovely umami depth, ensuring that even modified versions of the dish remain rich and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for the best texture.

→ What type of pasta is best for Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

It's best to make the sauce fresh; however, you can prepare all ingredients in advance to save time.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a low-calorie pasta to reduce overall calories.