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Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 103 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a rich and creamy comfort food featuring perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with fettuccine pasta in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish combines tender shrimp, buttery garlic onion sauté, white wine deglazing, and a creamy parmesan-infused sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta

Shrimp

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (plus sprinkle for garnish)

Sauce

  • 1 Tbsp oil
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 1/3 cup white wine (such as Ste Chapelle Chardonnay)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Parsley or basil (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse to ensure the sauce adheres well to the noodles.
  2. Prepare Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until shrimp are golden-pink outside and opaque inside. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubberiness. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make Sauce Base: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 Tbsp unsalted butter and the finely chopped onion. Sauté until onion becomes golden and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in 1/3 cup white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Reduce the wine to about 25% of its original volume, concentrating the flavors.
  5. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in 2 cups heavy whipping cream and let simmer gently for 2 minutes. Sprinkle 1/3 cup parmesan cheese on top and stir carefully until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and about 1/4 tsp paprika. Avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from separating.
  6. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce and toss in the drained pasta, ensuring everything is well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and additional parmesan cheese or freshly cracked pepper if desired. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

  • This dish is a comforting and indulgent meal perfect for shrimp and pasta lovers.
  • The key to tender shrimp is not overcooking them; watch for the pink/golden color and opacity inside.
  • Do not rinse pasta after draining to help the sauce stick better.
  • Use a good quality white wine for better flavor in the sauce, but a non-alcoholic substitute can be used if preferred.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 647 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 214 mg
  • Fat: 39 g
  • Saturated Fat: 23 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 273 mg