This Seafood Alfredo Pasta is a creamy delight filled with shrimp and scallops, wrapped in a rich and cheesy sauce. It’s the comfort food you didn’t know you needed!
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. I love to pair it with garlic bread—just perfect for scooping up that extra sauce! Who doesn’t love a little indulgence with their dinner? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This flat pasta is perfect for capturing the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for an alternative, spaghetti or linguine works well too. For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp is my favorite—it’s juicy and cooks quickly! If shrimp isn’t available, try substituting with scallops or even cooked crab meat for a different seafood twist.
Heavy Cream: The cream gives this dish its richness. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a mix of yogurt and milk. Keep in mind the sauce might be a bit thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than the pre-grated kind. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can try a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Curdling?
Making a creamy Alfredo sauce requires a bit of care, especially when adding the heavy cream. To keep it smooth, follow these tips:
- Make sure to heat the butter on medium-low before adding the cream—too high and it’ll scald.
- When adding the cream, pour it slowly while stirring, allowing it to combine gently.
- Keep the heat low as you add in the Parmesan cheese. This prevents it from clumping and helps it melt evenly.
- Don’t let the sauce boil; a gentle simmer is key for smooth, creamy results.
How to Make Seafood Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Seafood:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes boiling the pasta and cooking the shrimp, and another 10-15 minutes making the creamy Alfredo sauce and combining everything together. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Easy peasy!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Watch it closely—you don’t want it to burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add your shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. You’re doing great!
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring this to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the cream thickens slightly. Stir it occasionally; this will make your sauce foolproof!
5. Add the Cheese:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season your sauce with salt, black pepper, and that optional crushed red pepper flake for a little kick!
6. Combine the Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the Alfredo sauce to coat them nicely. Next, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Gently mix everything together until the pasta is well coated in that lovely creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out your Seafood Alfredo Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Seafood Alfredo Pasta—it’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Seafood in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe features shrimp, you can also add scallops, crab, or even a mix of seafood. Just be mindful of cooking times: larger seafood may need a bit more time, whereas smaller shrimp will cook quickly.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free milk like almond or coconut milk, and use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to replace the cheese. The sauce will be slightly different but still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Seafood Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help restore creaminess.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
You can make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time! Just store it separately in the fridge and reheat gently before combining with the pasta and seafood. Note that you might need to add a bit more cream or milk when reheating, as it may thicken in the fridge.