Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine with Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
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12 oz fettuccine pasta
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Salt (for pasta water)
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
For the Homemade Alfredo Sauce:
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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1½ cups heavy cream
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2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced (or use the reserved garlic from shrimp)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (for a subtle warmth)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook fettuccine until al dente, according to package instructions.
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Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
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While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Sauté 1–2 minutes per side, until shrimp are opaque and just cooked through.
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Add minced garlic in the last minute and stir to coat.
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Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Wipe out skillet if needed.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Add garlic (if not already used with shrimp) and sauté 30 seconds.
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Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
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Whisk in Parmesan cheese, a bit at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
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Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine:
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Add cooked fettuccine and shrimp into the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
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If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
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Cook together over low heat for 1–2 minutes to warm through.
5. Serve:
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Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or chopped parsley if desired.
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Serve immediately.
Tips
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Use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt smoothly.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp — remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
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Want extra flavor? Add a splash of white wine to the Alfredo sauce before the cream.
Let me know if you’d like a lighter version, spinach or mushroom add-ins, or how to make it gluten-free.
