If you’ve been around The Recipe Bowl for a while, you already know one thing about my husband: Rod loves shrimp. I swear, if I make a shrimp dish, he’s in the kitchen faster than I can grab a pan. So when I opened the fridge and saw a container of leftover shrimp from the weekend, I knew exactly what I was making — a quick and creamy Shrimp Alfredo just for him.
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Because we all love recipes that help us use leftovers and taste like a restaurant meal, this one definitely earns a spot on your weekly menu. Even better, it’s fast, comforting, and RIDIC-ULICIOUS. Plus, it only takes a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand to whip up Quick Shrimp Alfredo.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Alfredo
There are so many reasons this recipe has become a go-to in our house, especially for easy lunches.
First, it transforms leftover shrimp into something new and delightful!
Next, the homemade Alfredo comes together in minutes.
Finally, it tastes like you simmered it all afternoon — even though it’s ready in about 20 minutes.
When you’re trying to pull together a quick meal for someone you love, this Shrimp Alfredo delivers every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Alfredo from scratch is simple, especially with ingredients you already have:
- Pasta
- Butter and olive oil
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan
- Seasonings
- And of course… your leftover shrimp
Everything comes together beautifully, and the shrimp warms perfectly without overcooking.
How to Make Quick Shrimp Alfredo
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe feels like comfort food, yet it stays incredibly easy.
First, cook your pasta until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, melt butter with a little olive oil and garlic.
Then, pour in the cream and let it simmer just long enough to thicken.
After that, add Parmesan, seasonings, and a splash of pasta water to help everything come together.
Finally, toss in your leftover shrimp and pasta. Within a minute, you’ll have a silky-smooth Alfredo that tastes like pure heaven, akin to Quick Shrimp Alfredo you make often.
It’s that simple!
Helpful Tips
Use What You Have
Leftover shrimp works beautifully, but you can swap in scallops, chicken, or veggies for a variation. Use whatever kind of pasta you have on hand.
Control the Creaminess
If your sauce thickens too quickly, simply add a spoonful of reserved pasta water to keep your Quick Shrimp Alfredo creamy.
Freshly Grated Cheese Makes a Difference
It melts smoother and tastes better than bagged cheese in your Quick Shrimp Alfredo.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! Although homemade tastes richer, store-bought works when you’re short on time, making it still a Quick Shrimp Alfredo.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne, linguine, or rotini all work well for Quick Shrimp Alfredo.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream so the sauce stays smooth in your reheated Quick Shrimp Alfredo.
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Quick Shrimp Alfredo
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or any pasta
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shrimp leftover cooked
- 2 –4 Tbsp reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
- Meanwhile, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth. Add splashes of reserved pasta water as needed.
- Add leftover shrimp and heat for 1–2 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
Storage Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently on the stovetop.