Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, tender shrimp, and luscious creamy sauce, then this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is your new go-to recipe. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh ingredients, simple steps, and an impressive restaurant-quality taste you can make right at home. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in a velvety Alfredo sauce, draped over fettuccine – every bite is bursting with flavor and just the right amount of indulgence. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta delivers satisfaction in every forkful.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta recipe stands out because it balances ease and elegance flawlessly. From the first sautéed garlic-infused shrimp to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, every step is designed to maximize flavor without unnecessary fuss. The use of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates an authentic Alfredo sauce that’s silky smooth and rich, without relying on pre-made mixes or artificial ingredients. Plus, the recipe calls for simple pantry staples, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. The shrimp cooks quickly, ensuring the pasta stays perfectly tender but not mushy, and the garlic provides a perfect aromatic foundation. It’s a recipe you can trust to impress guests or simply treat yourself after a busy day.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta – provides the ideal surface area for the sauce to cling
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – fresh or thawed for the best texture
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing shrimp and garlic
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the hero flavor in the sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the creamy, luscious Alfredo base
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for superior melt and flavor
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – enhances all the flavors
• Fresh parsley, chopped – for a bright, herbaceous garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – for boiling the fettuccine pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook shrimp and prepare the sauce
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce gently
• Grater – to grate fresh Parmesan cheese
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping garlic and parsley

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining – it’s handy for adjusting sauce consistency later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil and any browned bits in the pan.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine, scraping up any bits left from the shrimp. Allow the cream to warm through, but don’t let it boil.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season

Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them thoroughly with the creamy garlic Alfredo sauce. Add the drained fettuccine pasta and gently toss everything together, ensuring each strand is luxuriously coated in sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve immediately while warm. For a lighter twist, try pairing this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Shrimp: Substitute with cooked chicken breast or turkey strips if shrimp is unavailable or costly.
• Heavy Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, adjusting seasoning as needed.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Fettuccine: Any long pasta like linguine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti works well.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe is inspired by classic Italian comfort food, with a focus on simplicity and freshness. The combination of garlic and shrimp is a timeless pairing, and when combined with a rich Alfredo sauce, it creates a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable. The technique of cooking shrimp separately ensures they remain tender and juicy, while the sauce is kept creamy and smooth by adding cheese gradually. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also balances the richness with its herbal brightness. It’s a recipe designed to bring warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

• This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
• Avoid freezing cooked shrimp in the sauce as it can alter the texture; instead, freeze shrimp separately if possible.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps in getting a nice sear. Frozen shrimp is a convenient option and works perfectly in this dish.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten the recipe, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Also, using whole wheat pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles can reduce calories while adding fiber and nutrients.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?

If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried parsley can be used, though it won’t provide the same vibrant flavor or color. Alternatively, fresh basil or chives make excellent garnishes that complement the creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta.

Is there a way to add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, or sun-dried tomatoes can be stirred into the sauce along with the shrimp for added texture and nutrition. Just be sure to cook any vegetables beforehand to your liking.

Keep Cooking

• For another creamy, comforting dish, check out this Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti that’s packed with flavor and veggies.
• If you love garlic shrimp pasta, you’ll also enjoy the zesty twist in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne.
• Explore more easy pasta dinners that bring big flavor without fuss.
• Discover simple sauces that transform everyday pasta into gourmet meals.

Before You Go

Make sure to save this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta recipe for your next dinner. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-style meal at home. Don’t forget to experiment with the garnish and add-ins to make it your own. And if you try any creative twists, be sure to share your experience with friends and family – good food is meant to be shared!

This creamy, decadent pasta with tender shrimp and savory garlic will soon become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and simply irresistible. So grab your skillet and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

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