This creamy Seafood Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta with shrimp and other tasty seafood. It’s rich, filling, and oh-so-delicious!
You’ll love how quick this meal comes together. Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking in extra shrimp when I’m making it. Who can say no to more seafood fun? 🦐
Making this pasta is a breeze! Just cook the pasta, whip up the creamy sauce, and toss in the seafood. Easy peasy, and it always impresses friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine work best for this dish as they hold the sauce well. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter touch.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but I prefer large shrimp for their meaty bite. If you’re not a shrimp fan, you could substitute with scallops or mixed seafood like mussels and clams.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives that rich texture. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half works well, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just note that the flavor will differ slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for smooth melting. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. Avoid pre-grated cheese when possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Alfredo Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
The sauce consistency is crucial for this dish! Start by cooking your garlic in melted butter. This is where flavor begins. Then, when you add the heavy cream, make sure your heat is medium—too high and it may scorch.
- Whisk constantly as you add the cream, then milk, to incorporate air for a smooth texture.
- Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. Watch it carefully to ensure it thickens without boiling.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese. If it looks grainy, just keep stirring over low heat until it smooths out.
Patience is key here! You’ll achieve a delicious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Seafood Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
For the Seafood:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Seafood Alfredo Pasta takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dinner option. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season them lightly with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly to mix the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Keep stirring and let the sauce simmer for another minute.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta and the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything well to ensure the pasta is coated in that delicious Alfredo sauce. Heat everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s warmed through.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your Seafood Alfredo Pasta with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or for a quicker method, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce, or warm it in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Alfredo Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove, and if it’s too thick, add a little milk to bring it back to the desired consistency before adding the pasta and shrimp.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Lighter?
Definitely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and substitute the butter with a light olive oil or spread. You can also incorporate more vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrients without significantly increasing the calorie count.
