Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo – Easy Weeknight Comfort

There’s something comforting about twirling warm fettuccine through a velvety Alfredo sauce and catching plump, buttery shrimp in every bite.

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo has become one of my favorite dinners when I want something indulgent but easy enough for a weeknight.

It’s rich, creamy, garlicky — and it always feels like a restaurant-quality treat at home.

Whether you’re making it for guests or just to treat yourself, this dish never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this dish so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures — tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every strand.

I love how it comes together quickly, yet feels elegant and satisfying.

Plus, it’s totally customizable based on what you have on hand!

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Fettuccine: The wide noodles catch all the creamy Alfredo goodness.

Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp — just make sure they’re peeled and deveined.

Butter & Cream Cheese: The base of the sauce is super creamy thanks to these two.

Heavy Cream: Adds richness and silkiness.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.

Garlic: Brings the dish to life — use fresh for maximum flavor.

Chicken Broth: Lightens the sauce slightly while adding depth.

Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and color.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining — it helps loosen the sauce if needed.

Don’t overcook the shrimp; they turn rubbery fast. Just a few minutes per side is perfect.

If you want extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1. Cook the Fettuccine

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine until al dente.

Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2. Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

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

Remove and set aside.

Step 3. Start the Alfredo Sauce

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

Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4. Add Cream, Broth, and Cream Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.

Add the cream cheese and whisk continuously until smooth.

Step 5. Stir in the Parmesan

Gradually add in the grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6. Combine and Toss

Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed shrimp into the sauce.

Toss well to coat everything evenly.

If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.

Step 7. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

This shrimp Alfredo pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread or crusty baguette

A crisp Caesar salad

Roasted vegetables (like broccoli or asparagus)

A glass of chilled white wine

Variations / Substitutions

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

Swap shrimp with grilled chicken or scallops.

Add baby spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost.

Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage & Leftovers

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

Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long — it can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra water in the pan.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?
You can, but it won’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce and shrimp in advance and reheat with cooked pasta.

What’s the best cream substitute?
Half-and-half works, though the sauce will be a bit thinner.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free fettuccine.

What protein can I use instead of shrimp?
Chicken breast, salmon, or even tofu are great alternatives.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat low when adding cheese, and whisk continuously.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is the kind of comfort food that turns any meal into something memorable.

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a creamy, dreamy dish I come back to again and again.

I hope it becomes one of your favorites too!