If there’s one dish that manages to hit all the right notes of comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance, it’s the Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Imagine twirling perfect pasta strands, coated in a silky cream sauce with juicy shrimp, fragrant garlic, and a kiss of white wine, all coming together in each dreamy bite. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight dinner or treating guests to a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this recipe brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds in mind.

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part of this dish is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can transform into something crave-worthy. Each element is just as important as the next: rich cream for body, sharp cheese for punch, and plump shrimp as the star. Here’s exactly what you’ll need and why you’ll love it.

Fettuccine or penne pasta (3/4 lb): The classic choice is fettuccine, which clings to the sauce beautifully, but penne offers a playful twist and captures the sauce in every bite.
Shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 lb): Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp—these add a sweet, tender bite and turn this pasta into an elegant feast.
Oil (1 Tbsp): Just a bit ensures the shrimp sear without sticking and helps keep them tender and juicy.
Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the Alfredo sauce that’s almost invisible, but totally missed if absent.
Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp): The foundation of richness, it encourages all the other flavors to mingle together.
Garlic clove, minced (1): It brings warmth and an irresistible aroma that’s essential to any Alfredo dish.
White wine (1/3 cup): Chardonnay or a similar wine brightens the sauce and lifts the flavors; don’t skip it if you want that restaurant-style finish.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): The secret to luxurious, creamy sauce that hugs every noodle.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup): Salty, nutty, and utterly crucial for that classic Alfredo texture and flavor.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Rounds out all the flavors while letting the shrimp and cream shine.
Pinch of paprika: Adds color and the lightest touch of warmth, making each bite pop.
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): A sprinkle on top adds freshness and a dash of color to your finished masterpiece.

How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your fettuccine or penne until al dente, following the package directions. Give it a good stir now and then to keep the noodles from sticking together. Remember, don’t rinse the pasta after draining—the starch helps that delicious Alfredo sauce cling to every strand for the ultimate bite.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While your pasta is doing its thing, lightly season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and that pinch of paprika. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high and add the shrimp in a single layer—no crowding! Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they’re blushing pink and just opaque. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery, so pull them out as soon as they’re done and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, melt your butter and add the finely chopped onion. Cook until it’s soft, golden, and lightly sweet—about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for about one fragrant minute. This step creates the flavor base that makes every Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe so memorable.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine

Splash the white wine into the hot pan, scraping up any little brown bits from cooking the shrimp and onions—that’s pure flavor gold! Let the wine bubble away and reduce by about 75 percent. In just a couple of minutes, you’ll be left with a concentrated, super-flavorful foundation for your sauce.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and gently simmer for about 2 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan and stir until the sauce goes from thin to lusciously creamy and smooth. Don’t let the sauce boil—keep an eye on it and gently heat so your cheese stays velvety, not stringy. Taste, then finish with more salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp, Pasta, and Sauce

Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and pour in the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, so each bite is coated with that glorious Alfredo sauce and flecked with shrimp. You’re looking for a silky shine and even mix, so take your time with this final toss.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, crown your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe with a shower of chopped fresh parsley or basil and, if you like, a bit more Parmesan. Serve piping hot and get ready for the compliments!

How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touch makes all the difference! Try a sprinkle of bright-green parsley or basil for freshness and color, or add an extra pinch of freshly ground black pepper and a dusting of Parmesan. A light zest of lemon can also give your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe a subtle citrus lift, cutting through the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

Keep it classic with garlic bread or a toasted baguette to soak up any sauce left behind on your plate. For a bit of crunch, a crisp Caesar or simple mixed greens salad with lemony vinaigrette is the perfect partner to balance the richness of your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this dish family-style in a big, steaming bowl for everyone to dig into, or individually plate it with a towering twirl of pasta and shrimp artfully arranged on top. For a dinner party, try serving it in small, shallow bowls with a sprig of basil for a restaurant-inspired look—your guests will be seriously impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The pasta and shrimp will continue to soak up the sauce as they sit, so expect a thicker, more intensely flavored dish on day two. Still delicious, especially for a quick lunch!

Freezing

While this Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe is best fresh, you can freeze it if absolutely needed. Spoon into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Just keep in mind that creamy sauces may separate upon thawing, so stir well after reheating.

Reheating

To gently bring leftovers back to life, reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of extra cream or milk to restore that silky sauce. Stir often and add the shrimp near the end to keep them tender. The microwave works in a pinch, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw your frozen shrimp thoroughly and pat dry before cooking. They work just as well in the Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe and can be a convenient freezer staple to have on hand.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Yes, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half and use a bit less butter. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still creamy and satisfying, perfect if you’re looking to shave off a few calories.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

Just add a splash of reserved pasta water or a little extra cream and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Alfredo sauces can thicken as they cool, so don’t be shy about loosening them up when needed.

Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes make lovely additions. Fold them in with the pasta and shrimp for extra color and nutrition.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping in the sauce?

Add the Parmesan off the heat or on very low heat and stir in small amounts at a time. This ensures a smooth, creamy finish without the cheese getting stringy or grainy.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe earns rave reviews every time—it’s comforting, luxurious, and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with every creamy, dreamy forkful. Happy cooking!