Description
Creamy, comforting, and full of seafood richness, this Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is a decadent pasta dish that tastes like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant—but it’s easy enough to make at home. Featuring tender salmon, juicy shrimp, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or when you want to impress without the stress.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta & Protein:
8 oz fettuccine or linguine (or pasta of choice)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika (for salmon)
½ tsp garlic powder (for shrimp)
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon and Shrimp
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Pat salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and flaky.
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Remove from skillet, let rest, then flake into chunks.
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In the same pan, add shrimp and season with salt, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice.
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Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Stir and simmer 3–5 minutes, until thickened and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
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Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
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Add salmon chunks and shrimp, gently folding them into the pasta.
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If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.
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Serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread or a green salad.
Notes
Use Fresh Seafood – For best texture and flavor, especially in a simple dish like this.
Don’t Overcook – Both shrimp and salmon cook quickly; remove them as soon as they’re done.
Grate Fresh Parmesan – It melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
Reserve Pasta Water – It’s your secret to a silky, cohesive sauce.
Serve Immediately – This dish is best hot and fresh off the stove.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American