This recipe is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still craving a hearty, restaurant-quality meal. It comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The shrimp cook quickly and soak up all the garlic and cheesy flavor, while the creamy Alfredo sauce clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. It’s rich, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Heavy cream
Cream cheese
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt
Black pepper
Fettuccine or pasta of choice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
Let everything heat together for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Spicy Cajun Alfredo: Add Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a smoky, spicy twist.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate and lose texture after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
What type of pasta works best with Alfredo?
Fettuccine is classic, but linguine, penne, or spaghetti also work well.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but add them at the very end to warm through without overcooking.
How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
Use full-fat dairy ingredients and freshly grated cheeses for the creamiest texture.
Is it okay to use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
You can, but homemade tastes fresher and gives you control over the flavor.
Can I add mushrooms or onions?
Absolutely. Sauté them before adding the shrimp for a deeper flavor base.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add cheese gradually while stirring constantly, and make sure the sauce isn’t too hot when adding it.
What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?
Fontina, provolone, or even gouda can work well in this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead, then reheat and toss with cooked pasta just before serving.
What herbs pair well with Alfredo?
Parsley is classic, but you can also use basil, thyme, or oregano for added depth.
Conclusion
30 Minute Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo is the perfect combination of speed, flavor, and indulgence. With minimal prep and bold, comforting ingredients, it’s a dish that delivers maximum impact with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this creamy shrimp pasta is sure to hit the spot every time.
30 Minute Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish made with tender shrimp, garlic-infused Alfredo sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s a comforting and indulgent meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until sauce is thick and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Return shrimp to the skillet and gently combine.
Let everything heat together for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use full-fat dairy and freshly grated cheese for the best creamy texture.Don’t overcook the shrimp—remove them as soon as they’re pink.If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or cream to loosen it.For added flavor, sauté mushrooms or onions before cooking the shrimp.Store leftovers with a bit of milk or cream to help reheat the sauce smoothly.
