Blackened Shrimp Alfredo

Blackened Shrimp Alfredo is a bold and creamy pasta dish that combines spicy, smoky shrimp with a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. Served over fettuccine or your pasta of choice, this restaurant-quality recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of two worlds: the fiery seasoning of Cajun-style blackened shrimp and the indulgent creaminess of Alfredo sauce. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that feels fancy without being fussy. Packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to impress guests or elevate your dinner routine.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil or butter
• Blackening seasoning (or Cajun seasoning blend)
• Fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• Heavy cream
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Pat shrimp dry and toss with blackening seasoning to coat evenly.
3. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir frequently.
7. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce.
10. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
11. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp.
• Swap fettuccine for linguine, penne, or zucchini noodles.
• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, acidic contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between, to avoid overheating the shrimp.

FAQs

What is blackening seasoning?

It’s a mix of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper—bold and slightly spicy.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of blackening seasoning or use a mild Cajun blend.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, it’s recommended for better texture and presentation.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but the flavor won’t be as deep since pre-cooked shrimp won’t blacken properly.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and gives the sauce a smooth, creamy texture.

How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?

Use low heat when melting the cheese and stir constantly.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a large skillet or pot to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp Alfredo is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. With tender, seasoned shrimp and a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite for dinner at home—whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or a special treat.

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