Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Linguini
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
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12 oz linguini (or fettuccine/spaghetti)
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Salt for pasta water
For the Alfredo Sauce:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
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1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of nutmeg
For Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra parmesan for serving
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Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguini
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook linguini according to package directions until al dente.
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Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
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While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
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Add minced garlic in the last 30 seconds. Stir gently.
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Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. (Leave any juices in the pan.)
Don’t overcook the shrimp — they’ll go rubbery fast!
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
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Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
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Stir in grated parmesan cheese, one handful at a time, until fully melted.
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If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp & Sauce
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Add the drained linguini to the skillet and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce.
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Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp and any juices from the plate.
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Simmer for 1–2 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
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Serve immediately with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, extra parmesan, and fresh cracked pepper.
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Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish.
What to Serve With Alfredo Shrimp Linguini
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Garlic bread or parmesan breadsticks 🥖
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Caesar salad or arugula salad 🥗
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Roasted broccoli or asparagus 🥦
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A chilled glass of white wine (Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay) 🍷
Storage & Reheating Tips
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to re-loosen the sauce.
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Freezing: Not ideal, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~650–750 kcal |
| Protein | 35–40g |
| Carbs | 55–60g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 900mg+ |
Note: Nutrition will vary depending on shrimp size, cream type, and cheese used.