Parmesan Shrimp Fettuccine

Parmesan Shrimp Fettuccine is a rich and elegant pasta dish featuring tender shrimp, silky homemade Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. The buttery cream sauce, made with freshly grated parmesan, coats every strand of pasta for a smooth, restaurant-quality finish. Ready in just over 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for both weeknight indulgence and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Luxurious – Silky Alfredo sauce made from scratch.
• Perfectly Seared Shrimp – Tender with a light golden crust.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Simple ingredients, elegant results.
• Quick Yet Impressive – Ready in 37 minutes.
• Customizable Heat – Red pepper flakes add optional spice.
• Balanced Flavors – Rich sauce brightened with garlic and parsley.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta

• 10 oz fettuccine – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully and cooks to al dente perfection.

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 5 tbsp butter – Creates a rich base for the sauce.
• 1.25 cups heavy cream – Provides smooth, velvety texture.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan – Melts evenly for a silky finish.
• Salt – Enhances flavor.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds subtle warmth.

For the Shrimp & Garnish

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed) – Tender protein that cooks quickly.
• 1.5 tbsp butter – Helps achieve a golden sear.
• 1.5 tsp garlic, freshly minced – Adds aromatic depth.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – Optional gentle heat.
• 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 5 tablespoons of butter. Add the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in the freshly grated parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Cook the Shrimp
In a separate skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1.5 tablespoons of butter. Add shrimp in a single layer and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook about 2 minutes without moving to develop a golden sear. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until pink and cooked through. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky consistency that clings to the noodles.

Assemble and Garnish
Divide pasta into serving bowls. Top with shrimp and distribute the garlic and red pepper flakes evenly. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Reserve Pasta Water – The starch helps emulsify and smooth the sauce.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
• Avoid Overcooking Shrimp – They cook quickly and can become rubbery.
• Low Simmer for Cream – Prevents sauce from separating.
• Serve Immediately – Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 2350 kcal (entire recipe estimate)

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed asparagus
• Sparkling water or white wine

Ideal Occasions

• Date night dinner
• Family pasta night
• Dinner parties
• Special weekend meals

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
• Avoid microwaving on high to prevent sauce separation.
• Not ideal for freezing due to cream-based sauce.

Creative Variations to Try

• Chicken Alfredo Version – Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken.
• Extra Cheesy – Add romano or asiago cheese.
• Vegetable Boost – Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms.
• Lemon Twist – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sauce too thick – Add reserved pasta water gradually.
• Sauce separating – Lower heat and whisk gently.
• Shrimp rubbery – Reduce cooking time.
• Bland flavor – Adjust salt and parmesan to taste.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of butter and heavy cream creates a stable base for the parmesan to emulsify smoothly, forming a rich Alfredo sauce. Cooking shrimp quickly over medium-high heat ensures a tender interior with a flavorful sear. Reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a cohesive, silky texture that elevates this simple dish to restaurant quality.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Shrimp Fettuccine is indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare at home. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh herb finish, it’s a dish that feels special while remaining approachable—perfect for turning an ordinary evening into something memorable.