Seafood Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and dreamy dish that combines pasta, tender shrimp, and delicious fish, all in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a true feast for your taste buds!
I love how comforting this meal feels. Plus, it’s quick to make, so I can enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right at home. Who doesn’t love a dinner that feels fancy but is easy? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine: This pasta is my go-to for Alfredo because its wide shape holds onto the cream sauce well. If you can’t find fettuccine, you can use linguine or even penne as a great alternative.
Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp lend a sweet and juicy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp work just fine—just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can also substitute with crab meat or scallops for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: This is crucial for that rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can mix a bit of milk with a thicker yogurt, but the result will be different. I personally love using heavy cream for that luxurious feel!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always best, as it melts beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought grated works too, but watch out for adding salt, since it’s often saltier. Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute for a sharper flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?
The key to success with Alfredo sauce is to whisk constantly while adding the cheese. This helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Melt your butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant but not brown.
- Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to combine.
- Let it simmer gently for a few minutes—this helps to thicken the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually. Whisk it in while the sauce is warm until melted. Avoid boiling!
Remember, the sauce will thicken as it cools, so don’t stress if it seems a bit thin initially.
How to Make Seafood Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 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 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Additional Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and another 15-20 minutes on the sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp to the pan, season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
4. Combine Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth. Season it with salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling spicy, the optional red pepper flakes.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy Alfredo sauce—make sure everything is nicely mixed!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with the chopped fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy your delightful Seafood Alfredo Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Seafood?
Absolutely! While shrimp are a classic choice, you can easily incorporate other seafood like scallops, crab, or even mixed seafood. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times depending on the type of seafood you use!
How Do I Store Leftover Seafood Alfredo Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess, or microwave it in short intervals while stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and omit the butter or use a lighter butter substitute. You can also add in more vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, for added nutrients without sacrificing flavor!
What Can I Serve with Seafood Alfredo Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a refined touch, consider serving it with steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables for balance.