If you are craving a luscious, restaurant-quality pasta dish that perfectly balances richness and freshness, this Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a game changer. Tender bites of salmon and succulent shrimp swim in a creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to fettuccine noodles. Every forkful offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures, from the delicate seafood to the velvety sauce and the hint of bright lemon. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor and texture harmony. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the creamy butter and Parmesan that build the sauce, or the fresh parsley that adds a pop of color and brightness.
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta: The perfect sturdy noodle to hold onto that creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), cut into bite-sized pieces: Adds a rich, flaky texture and subtle flavor that complements the shrimp.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Offers a tender, slightly sweet contrast to the salmon.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to cook the seafood gently without overpowering their natural flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant depth to the sauce that keeps every bite exciting.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the silky base for the Alfredo sauce, creating luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty note that balances the richness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Helps build the smooth sauce while enriching the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: A subtle kick of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: To enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky hint that perfectly seasons the salmon.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and a burst of green that makes the dish pop.
- Lemon wedges, for garnish: Provide a zesty brightness to cut through the creaminess when squeezed over the top.
How to Make Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. This step is key because the noodles should have a slight bite to hold up nicely to the creamy Alfredo sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with your sauce and seafood.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
With a large skillet heated over medium, drizzle in one tablespoon of olive oil. Season your salmon pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and that aromatic paprika. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked but still tender and juicy. Then, remove the salmon and let it rest while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and place the shrimp inside. Sear the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque in the center. Once done, remove them from the pan and join them with the salmon to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
This is the heart of the Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. Melt the butter gently in your skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let this mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a luscious sauce. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes perfectly smooth and creamy. At this point, taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Seafood
Now for the fun part: add your cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently so every strand is coated in that irresistible creaminess. Fold in the cooked salmon and shrimp carefully to keep the pieces intact and evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley atop your creation to give it a fresh, verdant finish. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, inviting everyone to squeeze a bit of citrus over their plate for an extra layer of brightness that beautifully balances this rich dish.
How to Serve Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, fresh garnishes make all the difference. The chopped parsley adds a vibrant color contrast and a hint of herbaceous fresh flavor. Decorative lemon wedges on the plate not only look beautiful but provide that zesty pop that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus complements this dish superbly by adding texture and refreshing acidity. Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach are also stellar choices, bringing earthy flavors and healthful greens to balance out the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, serve the Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in shallow pasta bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of your seafood. Garnish each plate with a small sprig of parsley and a lemon twist for extra elegance. For a casual meal, family-style serving directly from the skillet works beautifully too, inviting everyone to help themselves to this comforting and impressive dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken a bit in the fridge; that’s perfectly normal and easy to fix when reheating.
Freezing
Because cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, it’s best to freeze the salmon, shrimp, and pasta separately if you want to prep ahead. Freeze seafood portions in labeled bags for up to one month and defrost in the refrigerator before gently reheating and combining with freshly made sauce.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir frequently to warm the salmon and shrimp evenly without drying them out. Microwaving is possible but may cause the seafood texture to toughen, so stovetop is ideal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and works wonderfully with creamy sauces, you can also try linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. Just make sure it’s a pasta shape that holds onto sauce well.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely yes! The Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe uses very accessible steps and ingredients. With simple techniques like sautéing seafood and making the sauce, even novice cooks can master it with ease.
What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter as a lighter option, but heavy cream ensures that rich, silky consistency that makes Alfredo sauces so luxurious. Avoid skim milk, as it’s too thin and won’t thicken properly.
How do I prevent the salmon and shrimp from overcooking?
Keep a close eye while cooking seafood since they cook quickly. Salmon should flake easily but remain moist, and shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them promptly from the heat to avoid toughness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting regular fettuccine with a gluten-free pasta variety, you can enjoy this dish without gluten. Just cook the pasta according to the gluten-free package instructions to maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes every meal feel special. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with fantastic seafood flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo featuring tender seafood and al dente fettuccine tossed in a luscious homemade Parmesan cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish. This quick and elegant pasta dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Seafood
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be incorporated later.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season salmon pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the cooked salmon.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta and Seafood: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Gently fold in the cooked salmon and shrimp, ensuring everything is well combined without breaking up the seafood.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors before eating.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the seafood to maintain its tenderness.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoothest sauce texture.
- Lemon wedges add a nice acidity that complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
