When it comes to comforting pasta dishes, few meals are as universally loved as Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. Creamy, garlicky, buttery, and packed with juicy shrimp, this dish is the ultimate indulgence for seafood and pasta lovers alike. The best part? This version is made in just one pan, meaning you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal, a romantic date night, or even a dinner party, this One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo will win everyone over. It’s elegant enough to impress yet simple enough for beginner cooks to master. Let’s dive into why this dish is so irresistible and how you can recreate it perfectly in your own kitchen.
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Why This One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is Irresistible
1. Creamy yet light – The sauce coats every strand of fettuccine without being too heavy.
2. Juicy shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, soak up flavor, and add a burst of sweetness to the savory sauce.
3. One-pan convenience – Forget juggling multiple pots. The pasta, shrimp, and sauce all come together in a single pan.
4. Restaurant-quality flavor at home – Save money and enjoy an indulgent Italian-inspired meal without leaving your kitchen.
This dish is the perfect balance of convenience and indulgence, making it one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect shrimp Alfredo pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:
Fettuccine pasta (12 oz): The flat, ribbon-like shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Quick to cook, tender, and full of flavor. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best bite.
Butter (4 tbsp, divided): Adds richness to the sauce and helps sauté the shrimp for golden, buttery flavor.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Prevents the butter from burning while searing the shrimp.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with that irresistible savory aroma. Fresh garlic is a must.
Chicken broth (3 cups): Provides a flavorful base for cooking the pasta and helps keep the sauce light.
Heavy cream (2 cups): The key to the creamy Alfredo sauce, giving it body and smooth texture.
Parmesan cheese (1 ½ cups, freshly grated): Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty richness. Always grate it fresh—pre-shredded cheese won’t melt smoothly.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and the sauce.
Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds color and a fresh, herby brightness to balance the creaminess.
Optional red pepper flakes: For a gentle heat that elevates the sauce without overpowering it.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make your One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook shrimp in batches so they sear instead of steaming.
Step 2: Build the Base of the Sauce
In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add fettuccine pasta directly to the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook for about 10 minutes, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Pro Tip: Cooking the pasta in broth instead of water infuses it with deep flavor.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and lower the heat.
Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.
Return the shrimp to the pan and toss with the pasta until everything is coated in sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
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Why Everyone Loves This Dish
This dish is adored because it brings together the best of both worlds—comfort food and elegance. Shrimp adds a touch of luxury, while the one-pan method keeps it approachable and stress-free. The combination of creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Another reason it’s loved: it’s versatile. You can make it exactly as written, or customize it with extra add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
1. Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
2. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp become rubbery if cooked too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink.
3. Balance the sauce: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, let it simmer a few minutes longer.
4. Serve immediately: Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools, so enjoy it right away for the creamiest texture.
5. Use a wide pan: A deep, wide skillet ensures the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
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Serving Suggestions
To make this One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo a complete meal, pair it with:
Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Green salad: A crisp Caesar or simple arugula salad balances the richness.
Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
White wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce and shrimp.
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Variations to Try
Lighter Alfredo: Swap half the cream with milk and add an extra splash of broth.
Extra veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Spicy twist: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Surf and turf: Mix in grilled chicken for extra protein.
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Conclusion: The Ultimate Weeknight Luxury
This One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo proves that gourmet flavor d
oesn’t have to mean complicated cooking. With its creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, tender shrimp, and pasta that cooks in the same pan, this recipe is both simple and luxurious.
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