If you are looking for a luxurious yet approachable dish to wow your family or guests, this Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine perfectly al dente fettuccine bathed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, studded with tender chunks of salmon and succulent shrimp that add layers of flavor and texture. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness, all wrapped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each chosen with intention to bring harmony to the plate. Every item contributes either richness, freshness, or that irresistible savory punch that makes each bite memorable.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The ideal pasta shape to catch and hold the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly.
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized chunks: A flavorful, tender protein that adds depth and a touch of elegance.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet and briny contrast with its succulent texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the salmon and shrimp to a beautiful golden finish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the sauce, bringing luscious creaminess and subtle richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant depth and aromatic warmth.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The heart of the Alfredo sauce, creating that irresistibly silky texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavors and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that complements the seafood and creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that adds herbal brightness and complexity.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of color and fresh herbal notes at the end.
- Lemon wedges: Adds a lively burst of acidity to cut through the richness.
How to Make Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your fettuccine pasta in salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. This is crucial because pasta that’s too soft won’t hold up against the rich sauce and seafood. Once cooked, drain well and set aside, ready to soak up all that creamy goodness later on.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your salmon chunks and sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and are fully cooked inside. The crispy exterior and tender interior create a delicious contrast that elevates this dish.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet (to capture all those lovely browned bits from the salmon), add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a pinkish hue and become opaque—avoid overcooking so they stay juicy and tender. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the salmon.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté just until you can smell that intoxicating aroma—about 1 to 2 minutes, careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently so it stays smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Now the magic happens—add the fettuccine, salmon, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the pasta is lavishly coated in that dreamy Alfredo sauce and the seafood is evenly distributed. Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and don’t forget those lemon wedges to brighten every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is more than just decoration; it adds a fresh, herbal lift that contrasts wonderfully with the richness. A squeeze of lemon right before digging in cuts through the creaminess and makes the flavors pop like a little sunshine on your plate.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides simple and fresh to complement this indulgent pasta. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus works beautifully, providing texture and a touch of earthiness without overwhelming the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate the pasta using tongs to twist the fettuccine into elegant nests. Arrange the salmon chunks and shrimp on top artistically, then sprinkle with parsley and place a lemon wedge on the side. Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce’s inviting sheen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken further, so loosening it up when reheating is key. Keep the seafood covered well to preserve its delicate flavor.
Freezing
Because Alfredo sauce and seafood can change texture when frozen, freezing this dish is not recommended if you want to maintain the best quality. If you must, freeze the pasta separately without the sauce and seafood for better results, then add freshly cooked seafood and sauce when ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce before serving. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce separating and the seafood becoming rubbery. Patience here will keep the dish creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo sauce because of how well it holds the creamy sauce, you can use linguine, penne, or even tagliatelle. Just ensure your pasta shape can capture the sauce for the best experience.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ, but it can still be delicious with those tweaks.
How do I know when the salmon and shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Look for salmon to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork, and for shrimp to turn pink and curl slightly. Overcooking either will make them tough, so keep a close eye during searing.
Can I prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
You can make the Alfredo sauce earlier in the day and gently reheat it before combining with the seafood and pasta. Just stir frequently while warming to maintain a smooth texture.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight meals?
Definitely. With only about 40 minutes from start to finish and mostly straightforward steps, this Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe fits nicely into a cozy weeknight dinner that feels special but is surprisingly simple.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite because it delivers comfort, luxury, and vibrant flavors all in one bowl. I encourage you to try it for your next meal and watch how the combination of creamy sauce, fresh seafood, and tender pasta wins over every palate at your table. Enjoy every luscious bite!
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Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy Alfredo pasta dish featuring tender salmon and succulent shrimp, tossed in a homemade Parmesan cream sauce and garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Seafood
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with salmon.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking and stirring often until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine & Serve: Return the cooked fettuccine, salmon, and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together gently until evenly coated in the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp and salmon to keep them tender and juicy.
- You can substitute fettuccine with linguine or tagliatelle if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
