Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
When you’re craving comfort food with an elegant twist, Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is the answer. This rich, creamy pasta dish combines two beloved seafoods—succulent shrimp and flaky salmon—in a velvety Parmesan Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to strands of tender fettuccine. Whether you’re cooking a romantic dinner for two, impressing dinner guests, or just treating yourself to something truly indulgent, this recipe delivers five-star flavor with minimal fuss.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, and how to recreate this seafood masterpiece at home.
Why This Recipe Works
This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo recipe is a one-pan wonder that strikes a perfect balance of richness, freshness, and heartiness. The buttery salmon and sweet shrimp bring depth and luxury, while the garlic-Parmesan cream sauce ties it all together with restaurant-quality flair. It’s:
Quick & easy – Ready in about 30 minutes
Perfect for special occasions – But simple enough for weeknights
Customizable – Works well with gluten-free pasta or other seafood
Family-friendly – Even picky eaters can’t resist creamy pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this creamy seafood pasta to life:
8 ounces fettuccine pasta – Classic and sturdy enough for a creamy sauce
1 pound fresh salmon fillets – Skinless and boneless preferred
1 pound shrimp – Peeled, deveined; medium or large size work best
1 cup heavy cream – The rich base for your Alfredo sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for best melt and flavor
3 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and savory
2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the seafood and building flavor
1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and balances richness
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings
Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and a pop of color
How to Make Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo – Step by Step
1. Cook the Fettuccine
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Cook the Salmon
Add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked and flaking easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sear the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the salmon.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour the heavy cream into the same skillet and stir gently to deglaze and mix in the browned bits. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Finish the Sauce
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Combine Everything
Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, folding them into the sauce gently.
8. Add Pasta & Toss
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for 1–2 minutes on low heat.
9. Serve & Garnish
Serve hot, topped with freshly chopped parsley. Add a little extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, you’ll want:
Large skillet or sauté pan
Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Tongs or pasta fork
Garlic press (optional)
Spatula or fish turner (for the salmon)
Cutting board and sharp knife
Chef’s Tips & Variations
Want to make this dish your own? Try some of these tasty variations and shortcuts:
Use pre-cooked shrimp to shave off cooking time—just toss them into the sauce to warm through.
Swap in linguine or penne if you don’t have fettuccine on hand.
Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra color and nutrients.
Prefer dairy-free? Use full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Crisp up some pancetta or bacon at the beginning and use the rendered fat for an extra flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
This pasta is best fresh, but leftovers can still shine with the right storage method.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short bursts with a little liquid to prevent drying out.
Freezing: Not recommended, as cream sauces tend to separate when thawed.
What to Serve with Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but here are some lovely pairing options:
Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up extra sauce
Crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette
White wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Sparkling water with lemon for a fresh, fizzy contrast
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes! Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Q: What’s the best pasta for Alfredo?
Fettuccine is traditional because it holds creamy sauces well, but linguine, tagliatelle, or even pappardelle are great alternatives.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep all components ahead (cook pasta, seafood, and sauce), but wait to combine until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but it’s easy to make gluten-free by using your favorite GF pasta.
Q: How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat low while adding the cheese and avoid boiling the sauce. Stir gently and add a bit of pasta water if needed for a silky finish.
Bring the Flavor Home
There’s nothing quite like the decadence of a homemade Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo—it’s comfort food, elevated. With just a few quality ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal right from your own kitchen. Perfect for celebrations, date night, or when you just want to treat yourself to something spectacular.
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Mangia! 🐟🍤🍝