Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach is a luxurious, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that brings restaurant-level elegance straight to your home kitchen. Tender fettuccine noodles are coated in a rich Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan, while plump sautéed shrimp add a sweet, savory seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.

Fresh spinach folded into the hot pasta adds a boost of color, nutrients, and a hint of earthiness that balances the richness of the dish. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this dish always impresses with its simplicity and indulgent flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best of comfort food with sophisticated flavors. The Alfredo sauce is velvety, smooth, and incredibly satisfying, yet it’s simple to make with everyday ingredients.

The shrimp cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully, while the spinach adds freshness and balance. The textures work so well together: tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and silky sauce. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that feels special every time.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach is a must-try because it delivers bold flavor with surprisingly little effort.

• The homemade Alfredo sauce is fresher and more flavorful than anything store-bought.
• Shrimp cooks quickly, making this a fast weeknight dinner option.
• Spinach adds nutrients and makes the dish feel more rounded and complete.
• It’s versatile enough for both casual meals and celebrations.
• The combination of seafood and creamy pasta is universally loved.

If you want a meal that is crowd-pleasing, rich, and effortless, this one is a guaranteed winner.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, Calories, Course, Cuisine

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 620 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
• Salt for boiling water

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta water
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

• Red pepper flakes for spice
• Lemon zest for brightness
• Extra Parmesan for serving

Cooking Directions

1. Boil the pasta until al dente; reserve some pasta water.
2. Season and sauté the shrimp until pink and cooked through.
3. Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté garlic.
4. Add cream, broth, and Parmesan to make the Alfredo sauce.
5. Stir in spinach until wilted.
6. Combine pasta, shrimp, and sauce.
7. Season, garnish, and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (or pasta water). Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Add the Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
10. Add the cooked fettuccine into the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly.
11. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and combine everything gently.
12. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper.
• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness if desired.
• Pair with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook the shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly.
• Always use freshly grated Parmesan; pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt smoothly.
• Keep the heat medium to avoid separating the cream.
• Save pasta water—it helps adjust the sauce consistency.
• Add spinach at the end to keep its color vibrant.

Variations

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy twist.

Lightened-Up Alfredo

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream; thicken with a teaspoon of flour.

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

Add steamed broccoli for extra texture and nutrients.

Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo

Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness and tang.

Lemon Garlic Alfredo

Add lemon zest and extra garlic for a bright, zesty flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Avoid freezing this dish. Cream sauces become grainy and separate after thawing.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta spoon
• Whisk for the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, linguine, spaghetti, or penne work great.

Can I substitute chicken?
Yes, grilled or sautéed chicken is an excellent alternative.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well before adding.

Can I make the sauce ahead?
It’s best made fresh for the smoothest texture.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
The sauce will be thinner; add a teaspoon of flour to thicken.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach is a comforting, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dish that feels both indulgent and balanced. The rich Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh spinach create a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate a simple pasta dinner into something truly special. Whether you want an impressive meal for guests or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time with minimal effort. If you enjoy creamy pasta, seafood, and vibrant flavors, this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation.