Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Indulge in this creamy shrimp Alfredo pasta recipe that combines succulent shrimp, a rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne pasta. With a garlic and Parmesan cheese base, this creamy, comforting dish is made with heavy cream, white wine, and a touch of paprika for extra flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick shrimp pasta recipe or a simple shrimp alfredo dinner, this easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Learn how to make the best shrimp Alfredo with this simple, flavorful recipe!

Ingredients

• 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/3 cup white wine (Ste Chapelle Chardonnay or similar)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of paprika
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta (fettuccine or penne) in salted water according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Keeping the starch helps the sauce stick better.
2. Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Heat 1 Tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden and opaque (not translucent). Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can turn rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-high and add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer and reduce by about 25%, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. This will take around 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Avoid boiling the sauce, as it may cause the cheese to separate. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika to taste.
6. Add the cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, extra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

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Tips

• Perfect Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They only need 1-2 minutes per side to turn golden and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
• Pasta Drainage: Don’t rinse the pasta after draining. The starch helps the sauce cling better to the noodles.
• Wine Selection: A dry white wine works best for this dish. Chardonnay adds richness, but any dry white wine will work as a substitute.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to add the shrimp and pasta just before serving to maintain the freshness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Pasta Options: You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as linguine, spaghetti, or even a gluten-free pasta.
• Protein Alternatives: Replace shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based cream.
• Cheese Variations: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can also work for a slightly different flavor.

FAQs

• Can I make this recipe without wine? Yes, if you prefer to avoid wine, you can substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.
• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp work just as well, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture before seasoning.
• Can I make this ahead of time? The creamy sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and pasta in advance. When reheating, you may need to add a bit more cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair this creamy shrimp Alfredo pasta with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with the same white wine you used in the recipe, or try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy richness of the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The succulent shrimp, perfectly sautéed onions, and silky Alfredo sauce come together for a mouthwatering dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress!