Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is an indulgent dish that combines the richness of salmon, the sweetness of shrimp, and the decadence of a homemade Alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or even a special occasion. It’s a luxurious pasta that’s surprisingly easy to make and guarantees a restaurant-quality experience with every bite. Follow along to make a flavorful pasta dish with a creamy, cheesy sauce that perfectly complements tender salmon and shrimp!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Pasta & Seafood

  • 🍝 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 🐟 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 🍤 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Sauce

  • 🧈 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🧈 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 🥛 2 cups heavy cream
  • 🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
  • 🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 🥄 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

  1. Cook the fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon and Shrimp

  1. Season the seafood: Lightly season the salmon pieces and shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Cook the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the salmon.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

  1. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
  2. Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  3. Add seasonings and Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy (about 3-4 minutes). If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Seafood

  1. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. Add seafood: Gently fold in the cooked salmon and shrimp until they’re well distributed throughout the pasta. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Plate and garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and add a lemon wedge on the side for squeezing over the pasta just before eating.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 750
  • Total Fat: 45g
  • Saturated Fat: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg
  • Sodium: 920mg
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream creates a rich, thick sauce typical of Alfredo, but you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter version. Add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, if you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, add it towards the end of cooking, just before combining with the pasta. This prevents the shrimp from becoming tough.

Q3: What other types of fish can I use?
If you prefer, substitute salmon with white fish like cod or halibut, which also pairs well with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?
This dish is best served fresh. If reheating, use a low heat setting, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

  • Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta allows it to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.
  • Don’t overcook the seafood: Cook the salmon and shrimp until just done, as overcooked seafood becomes tough and dry.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better, resulting in a smoother sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Adjust sauce consistency: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the thickness of the sauce to your preference.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet on low heat, stirring in a bit of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce.

Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for this recipe, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently.

Conclusion

This Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is an irresistible dish that combines fresh seafood and creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a meal that feels both sophisticated and comforting. The combination of tender salmon, succulent shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce is sure to please seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Give this recipe a try for your next dinner, and savor each delicious bite!