There is nothing quite like indulging in a rich and satisfying meal that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to make. The Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe perfectly captures this balance, combining velvety homemade Alfredo sauce with tender chunks of salmon and succulent shrimp. Each bite delivers a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures, from the al dente pasta to the buttery, garlicky cream sauce. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a special dinner, this dish offers comfort and elegance all on one plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward crafting this unforgettable dish. Each component plays an important role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the recipe truly shine.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy Alfredo sauce for maximum flavor in every forkful.
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized chunks: Adds a rich, buttery taste and a boost of protein and omega-3s.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Offers a delicate sweetness and satisfying seafood texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the salmon to golden perfection without sticking.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Builds the luscious, silky base of the Alfredo sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses the sauce with warmth and aromatic depth.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates that signature rich and creamy texture of Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the entire dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness as a garnish.
- Lemon wedges: To add a refreshing zing just before serving, brightening the rich flavors.
How to Make Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the fettuccine. Cooking it until al dente ensures that the pasta remains firm and pleasantly chewy, providing a perfect base that won’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce. Once ready, drain the pasta well and set it aside, keeping it warm while you prepare the seafood and sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, and gently place the salmon chunks in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden crust forms and the fish is fully cooked but still moist. This step locks in the salmon’s tender texture and enhances its natural buttery flavor. Remove the salmon from the pan and keep it warm for later.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and slightly opaque. Cooking the shrimp just right prevents them from becoming rubbery and allows their sweet briny flavor to complement the salmon perfectly. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside alongside the salmon.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. As it bubbles, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates the aromatic foundation of the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring regularly until the sauce thickens to a luscious, silky consistency, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. This careful process ensures a rich sauce that clings beautifully to pasta and seafood alike.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Return the cooked pasta, salmon, and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything carefully to coat each piece evenly in the creamy sauce, making sure every bite delivers flavor and texture perfectly balanced. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for color and a few lemon wedges on the side to brighten the dish just before digging in.
How to Serve Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant green pop and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the Alfredo sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish instantly, cutting through the creaminess and highlighting the seafood flavors in the best possible way. Together, these garnishes bring freshness, color, and a touch of elegance to your plate.
Side Dishes
To round out this indulgent seafood pasta, consider serving with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These options provide refreshing crunch and balance the richness, while still complementing the Italian-inspired flavors of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-quality presentation, gently twirl portions of the creamy Alfredo pasta with a fork before plating to create an enticing nest of noodles. Arrange the salmon chunks and shrimp on top or around the pasta, then carefully drizzle any leftover sauce over the dish. Adding a lemon wedge on the side and a few whole parsley leaves will elevate the visual appeal and make every serving feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers from the Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, stir the pasta gently before serving again.
Freezing
Because Alfredo sauce can sometimes separate when frozen and thawed, freezing this dish is not ideal. However, if necessary, freeze the pasta and seafood separately from the sauce. When ready to eat, thaw both components in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat while combining them with freshly made or reheated sauce.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can cause the cream sauce to break or the seafood to overcook. Stir frequently until warmed through to restore that luscious creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and holds the sauce wonderfully, you can use linguine, penne, or even tagliatelle depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time to reach that perfect al dente texture.
Is it possible to substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick or rich. For the creamiest Alfredo, heavy cream is your best bet.
How do I know when the salmon and shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, while shrimp should be pink and firm but not rubbery. Overcooking will make both tough, so timing is key—usually 3 to 4 minutes per side for salmon and 2 to 3 minutes per side for shrimp.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can cook and combine the pasta and sauce in advance, keeping the seafood separate until just before serving. Then quickly reheat everything together for the best texture and flavor.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and seafood beautifully, adding bright acidity to balance every bite.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp Recipe feels like inviting a bit of luxury into your kitchen without the fuss. From the rich sauce to the perfectly cooked seafood, this dish offers a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food elevated with fresh flavors. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
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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
This Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Salmon & Shrimp is a luxurious and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce with perfectly seared salmon and shrimp. Ideal for seafood lovers who crave a comforting yet elegant meal, this recipe brings together fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and rich Parmesan cheese for a delicious dinner that feels special but is simple to prepare.
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 the salmon chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the salmon.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the sauce while stirring frequently until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine & Serve: Return the cooked fettuccine, salmon, and shrimp back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the seafood to keep the salmon tender and shrimp juicy.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
