Ingredients
– 12 oz fettuccine – The sturdy pasta holds the creamy alfredo sauce well
– 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Fresh or thawed, they cook quickly for tender bites
– 2 tbsp butter – Sautés shrimp and garlic for a rich base
– 3 garlic cloves (minced) – Adds aromatic punch central to garlic shrimp
– 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the silky alfredo sauce texture
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty savoriness
– ¼ cup dry white wine (optional) – Deglazes the pan and brightens flavors
– Salt, to taste – Seasons shrimp and pasta water
– Pepper, to taste – Adds mild heat to balance creaminess
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – Brings color and fresh herb note
– Lemon juice
– Red pepper flakes
Instructions
1-First Step: Mise en Place and Pasta Prep Measure all ingredients ahead. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz fettuccine and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water for sauce thinning if needed. This step sets up quick shrimp alfredo pasta.
2-Second Step: Cook the Garlic Shrimp Pat 1 lb shrimp dry. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and stir 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate. For gluten-free or low-cal, this method works perfectly.
3-Third Step: Build the Alfredo Sauce In the same skillet, pour ¼ cup white wine (if using) and scrape bits for flavor. Simmer 1 minute. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan. Cook on medium-low 5 minutes until thickened, stirring often. Vegan swap: use plant-based cream here. Taste and adjust salt.
4-Fourth Step: Combine and Toss Return shrimp to the skillet. Add drained fettuccine and toss to coat. If thick, add reserved pasta water. Stir in chopped parsley. For vegan, ensure all dairy subs are in. Heat 1-2 minutes. Off heat, squeeze lemon juice if desired for zing.
5-Final Step: Serve Immediately Divide into bowls. Garnish with extra parsley or red pepper flakes. Serves 4. Pair with a crisp salad. This easy shrimp alfredo pasta shines hot. Total time: 25 minutes, with 10 prep.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍤 Don’t overcook the shrimp – they become tough and rubbery when cooked too long
🧊 Use room temperature cream and cheese to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming clumpy
🌿 Fresh Parmesan makes a huge difference – pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect texture
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 165mg