Creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, shrimp fettuccine Alfredo is a classic pasta dish known for its rich texture and delicate balance of flavors. This one-pan version keeps the process simple while still delivering a luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, silky cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese combine to create a smooth Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to fettuccine. Finished with fresh parsley and seasoned to taste, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something impressive yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta as it cooks. Add the fettuccine pasta to the pot and cook it according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Allow the pasta to cook until it reaches an al dente texture, meaning it is tender but still slightly firm when bitten. Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta using a colander. Shake off any excess water and set the cooked fettuccine aside while you prepare the sauce and shrimp.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic
Place a large skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt slowly. As the butter melts, it will begin to coat the bottom of the pan and release a rich aroma.
Once the butter is fully melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir the garlic gently with a spoon or spatula so it cooks evenly in the butter. Allow it to sauté for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as this can cause it to develop a bitter flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp directly into the skillet with the butter and garlic. Spread them out in a single layer so they cook evenly. Allow the shrimp to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side without moving them too much.
As the shrimp cook, they will gradually change color from translucent gray to a pink and opaque appearance. Once the first side is cooked, flip the shrimp and cook them for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side until they are fully opaque and tender.
When the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Set them aside temporarily while you prepare the Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same skillet, keep the heat at medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and allow the cream to warm up until it reaches a gentle simmer. This process helps the cream thicken slightly and develop a smooth texture.
Reduce the heat to low once the cream begins to simmer. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously as the cheese melts into the cream. This creates a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce.
Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and evenly combined.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the pasta so that each strand becomes evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Next, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together carefully so the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Allow the mixture to warm together for a minute or two so the flavors blend.
Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir gently to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is fully combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the pasta. The parsley adds a fresh color and subtle brightness that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Serve the shrimp fettuccine Alfredo immediately while it is hot and creamy. The sauce will cling beautifully to the pasta, and the tender shrimp will provide a satisfying and flavorful bite in every forkful.
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Prep Time
10 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Calories
600 kcal
Servings
4 servings