Garlic Shrimp Alfredo with Linguine Pasta is a decadent yet surprisingly simple Italian-American classic. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in butter and garlic, then tossed with al dente linguine and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce made with Parmesan cheese, cream, and a hint of nutmeg. The result is a dish that’s luxurious, comforting, and bursting with flavor.

This recipe brings restaurant-quality pasta to your kitchen in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its creamy, garlicky sauce perfectly coats the pasta and shrimp, creating a harmony of flavors that’s impossible to resist.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and indulgent. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s both creamy and light, while the shrimp add protein and a touch of elegance.

It’s also versatile—you can add vegetables, swap shrimp for chicken, or adjust the richness to your preference.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Rich and creamy: The sauce is velvety and perfectly coats every strand of pasta.
• Quick to make: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Protein-packed: Succulent shrimp make it a satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily adapted with vegetables or different proteins.
• Crowd-pleasing: Loved by adults and kids alike.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• Salt for pasta water

For the Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 2: Sauté Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until smooth.
4. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
5. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in Alfredo sauce.
2. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta and shrimp.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
• Pair with a light salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
• Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated cheese for best flavor and smooth texture.
• Pasta water: Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Garlic: Adjust garlic quantity to taste for more or less pungency.
• Make it ahead: Sauce can be made ahead; add freshly cooked shrimp and pasta when ready to serve.

Variations

1. Chicken Alfredo: Replace shrimp with grilled or sautéed chicken breast.
2. Vegetable Alfredo: Add spinach, peas, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
3. Spicy Alfredo: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add Cajun seasoning.
4. Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
5. Seafood medley: Add scallops, crab, or lobster chunks for extra indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover shrimp Alfredo (without pasta) in airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Cream-based Alfredo sauce doesn’t freeze well; freezing is not recommended.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore consistency.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet for shrimp and sauce
• Whisk for sauce
• Tongs or spatula for tossing pasta
• Knife and cutting board for prep

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Q2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe.

Q3. Can I substitute Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano works, but adjust salt as it is saltier.

Q4. Can I make it ahead?
Prepare sauce and shrimp separately; combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready.

Q5. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of white wine added with cream adds depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Alfredo with Linguine Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With tender shrimp, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious—this is a must-try for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike!