Lemon Garlic Shrimp Alfredo with Pappardelle Noodles
Creamy, rich, and packed with bright citrus flavor, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Alfredo with Pappardelle Noodles is the perfect restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home. Tender shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter and tossed with silky pappardelle pasta in a creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce finished with fresh lemon juice and zest.
This easy pasta recipe is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you're craving a comforting seafood pasta dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in about 30 minutes
Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce
Fresh lemon balances the richness
Loaded with juicy shrimp
Perfect for weeknight dinners
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Servings
4-6 servings
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Pasta
12 ounces pappardelle noodles
Salted water for boiling
For the Alfredo Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
Fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Lemon slices
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pappardelle noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Add minced garlic during the final minute of cooking.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low.
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked pappardelle noodles to the Alfredo sauce.
Toss until fully coated.
Fold in cooked shrimp.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Step 5: Serve
Top with:
Fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan
Lemon wedges
Serve immediately while hot.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Alfredo
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
Do not overcook the shrimp.
Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor.
Pappardelle noodles hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.