Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

There’s something about creamy pasta dishes that always hits the spot—especially when it involves juicy shrimp and a rich Alfredo sauce.

I made this shrimp fettuccine Alfredo on a chilly evening, and the way the garlicky cream wrapped around the noodles instantly warmed me up.

The tender shrimp tucked into the silky Parmesan sauce made every bite feel like a small indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s the perfect mix of elegance and ease.

The shrimp brings a light, sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the velvety Alfredo sauce.

The best part? It feels like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant, but it comes together in under 30 minutes in your own kitchen.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for easy prep.

They soak up flavor fast and cook in minutes.

Fettuccine: These wide noodles hold on to the rich sauce like a dream.

Butter & Garlic: The foundation of flavor—simple, aromatic, and comforting.

Heavy Cream & Cream Cheese: Together they create an ultra-creamy, luscious texture.

Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth and helps thin the sauce just right.

Parmesan Cheese: Always go for freshly grated for the smoothest melt and best taste.

Salt, Pepper, Parsley: Final touches that brighten and balance the dish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Pat your shrimp dry before cooking—it helps them sear, not steam.

Reserve some pasta water before draining. A splash of it helps loosen the sauce if needed.

Keep the heat low when whisking in the cream cheese so it doesn’t clump.

Use a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself—it melts better and tastes fresher.

Add shrimp back at the end to keep them tender and juicy.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add fettuccine and cook until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Season shrimp with salt and pepper.

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter.

Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Cream & Cheese

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth and fully melted.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Slowly add grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Season with more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the pan.

Toss gently until well coated.

If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness.

What to Serve It With

I love pairing this with garlic bread or a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

A glass of white wine like Chardonnay takes it to the next level.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or scallops.

Use penne or linguine if you don’t have fettuccine.

Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a veggie boost.

Sub veggie broth for chicken broth to make it pescatarian.

Storage & Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely before storing.

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauciness.

Avoid microwaving shrimp too long to keep them tender.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce a few hours in advance and reheat gently.

What kind of shrimp should I use?
Medium to large shrimp work best. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

How do I avoid clumpy Alfredo sauce?
Use softened cream cheese, low heat, and constant whisking when combining.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or from the fridge.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or peas make great additions.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all. But you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.

Final Thoughts

This shrimp fettuccine Alfredo has become one of my go-to comfort meals when I want something warm, creamy, and soul-satisfying.

It’s simple to make, but feels luxurious on the plate.

Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or impressing guests—this recipe always delivers.