Luxurious Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe – Creamy, Comforting & Crowd-Pleasing
If you’re craving an indulgent seafood pasta dish that feels like it belongs on the menu of a five-star Italian bistro, this Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo recipe is the answer. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—perfect for date nights, family dinners, or entertaining guests. With tender bites of salmon and succulent shrimp enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce, every forkful is a delightful experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or new to cooking seafood, this dish is straightforward to prepare and comes together in under an hour. Keep reading to learn how to master this impressive recipe, plus tips, FAQs, storage instructions, and more.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for anyone who loves the luxurious taste of seafood paired with creamy pasta. It’s ideal for:
- Seafood lovers wanting to elevate their pasta game
- Busy home cooks looking for a gourmet dinner without the hassle
- Entertainers and hosts in need of a dish that wows guests
- Couples cooking at home for a romantic night in
It’s hearty enough to serve as a complete meal and elegant enough for any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
- Quick yet elegant – Done in under 45 minutes
- One-skillet wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor
- Rich and creamy – Thanks to heavy cream and Parmesan
- Versatile – Easy to adapt with different pastas, veggies, or protein
- Restaurant quality – Without the restaurant price tag
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillets
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this dish seamlessly, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Large pot (for pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (if using fresh Parmesan)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package directions. Salt the boiling water generously—it’s your chance to season the pasta from within. Once cooked al dente, drain and set aside. Save about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen your Alfredo sauce later.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. This step creates the flavor foundation of the dish.
3. Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is fully opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add the shrimp. Sauté for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside with the salmon.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the seafood. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Use some reserved pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce.
6. Add Seafood Back In
Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet with the shrimp. Gently fold into the Alfredo sauce, ensuring everything is coated.
7. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan. Toss everything together and cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Don’t overcook the seafood – Both shrimp and salmon can dry out quickly. Cook until just done.
- Try a pasta swap – Fettuccine is classic, but linguine, penne, or even tagliatelle work great.
- Boost the flavor – Add a splash of white wine before the cream for extra depth.
- Add veggies – Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are great add-ins.
- Make it spicy – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat.
- Use fresh Parmesan – For the creamiest, most flavorful sauce, grate it fresh.
What to Serve with Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
Food Pairings
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette – To soak up that creamy sauce
- Simple green salad – With vinaigrette to cut through the richness
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli – For a complete balanced meal
Drink Pairings
- White wine – Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully
- Sparkling water with lemon – For a light, fresh contrast
- Citrus cocktails – Try a lemon spritz or grapefruit gin fizz
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This dish makes great leftovers with just a little care.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Seafood doesn’t freeze well in creamy sauces, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating:
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
- Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms.
- Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent overcooking the seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half with a tablespoon of butter for a lighter version. However, it won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut cream or oat-based cream) and vegan Parmesan, though the flavor and texture will vary.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free fettuccine or your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep components (like cooking the pasta and chopping garlic) ahead of time.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests, it delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite. The rich, creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender seafood and hearty pasta to create a memorable meal worth savoring.
