Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo.

Juicy, perfectly seared shrimp and tender fettuccine are tossed in a decadent white wine cream sauce, finished with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make in under 40 minutes.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or hosting guests, this shrimp alfredo recipe brings all the flavor of a high-end restaurant to your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant yet easy – Perfect for both weeknights and special occasions

One pan + one pot – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor

Perfectly seared shrimp – Lightly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection

Rich, creamy alfredo sauce – Infused with white wine, garlic, and parmesan

Ready in under 40 minutes – Quick enough for a busy evening

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Fettuccine pasta – The classic base for creamy alfredo dishes

Large shrimp – Fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined for convenience

Olive oil and butter – For sautéing and flavor richness

Onion and garlic – Aromatic base for building flavor

Dry white wine – Chardonnay adds brightness and depth

Heavy whipping cream – Creates a velvety sauce texture

Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty umami richness

Salt, black pepper, and paprika – Essential seasoning for balance and warmth

Fresh parsley – Finishing touch for color and freshness

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use raw shrimp – They cook quickly and stay tender

Don’t overcook the shrimp – Remove them as soon as they turn opaque

Reduce the wine properly – It intensifies the flavor without making the sauce runny

Use freshly grated parmesan – It melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded

Don’t let the cream boil – A gentle simmer ensures a smooth sauce

Cook pasta just to al dente – So it doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add ¾ lb fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain well without rinsing and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, season 1 lb large shrimp with:

½ tsp sea salt

¼ tsp black pepper

¼ tsp paprika

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque.

Transfer shrimp to a plate to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, melt 2 Tbsp unsalted butter.

Add ½ medium finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until soft and golden.

Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in ⅓ cup white wine (Chardonnay recommended).

Increase heat and simmer until reduced by 75%, leaving behind a rich, concentrated base.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Lower heat to medium and add 2 cups heavy cream to the pan.

Bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Stir in ⅓ cup shredded parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, and paprika if needed.

Do not allow the sauce to boil—just a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained fettuccine and cooked shrimp to the pan.

Toss gently until everything is coated in the creamy alfredo sauce.

Warm through for 1–2 minutes over low heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Divide into warm pasta bowls.

Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley.

Add extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper on top.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

What to Serve With Shrimp Alfredo

Garlic bread or focaccia – For soaking up every drop of sauce

Caesar salad or arugula salad – To add some freshness and crunch

Roasted asparagus or green beans – Light sides to balance the creaminess

Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio – Complements the white wine in the sauce

Lemon wedges – Add a bright finish if desired

Variations and Substitutions

Use linguine or tagliatelle – Any long pasta works well

Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken – Great alternative proteins

Add mushrooms – Sauté with the onion for earthy flavor

Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce

Use half and half instead of cream – Slightly lighter, but still rich

Storage Tips

Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheat gently – Use low heat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk

Avoid freezing – Cream sauces tend to separate when thawed

Best served fresh – For the most luxurious texture

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but they tend to overcook quickly and may become rubbery.

Raw shrimp is preferred.

What’s the best wine for the sauce?
A dry white wine like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio adds great flavor.

Is it okay to omit the wine?
Yes. Replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth or seafood stock.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich and may need thickening with flour or cornstarch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep components (like the pasta and shrimp) in advance.

Is this gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is everything you want in a decadent pasta dish—rich, velvety sauce, tender pasta, and perfectly cooked shrimp.

It’s the kind of recipe that turns a regular dinner into something memorable, yet it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal.

With its balance of flavors, simple steps, and luxurious texture, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.