Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles

Name: Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love creating dishes that are both indulgent and healthier, and Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles perfectly fits that description. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic fettuccine alfredo, swapping out pasta for zucchini noodles, which adds a lovely flavor and significantly reduces calories. The rich and creamy sauce paired with succulent shrimp creates a satisfying meal that doesn't make me feel guilty. I'm excited to share this recipe that combines simplicity and elegance in just a little over thirty minutes.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:53:28.134Z

When I decided to make Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles, I wanted something that felt decadent but was also light and healthy. By using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta, I was able to bring freshness and brightness to the dish while keeping the creamy sauce intact. I sautéed garlic and shrimp in olive oil, which added a depth of flavor to the creamy Alfredo.

This dish was not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. I discovered that adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce elevates the flavors, creating an irresistible taste that my family couldn't get enough of. It’s the perfect recipe for weeknight meals or a special occasion without the fuss!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that's both rich and light
Zucchini noodles provide a fresh take on traditional pasta
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Flavorful shrimp that elevates the entire dish

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients can elevate your Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles from good to exceptional. For instance, fresh shrimp will provide a more succulent texture and sweeter flavor compared to frozen shrimp. If fresh isn't available, opt for wild-caught frozen shrimp instead of farmed to maintain flavor integrity. Similarly, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged versions can enhance the creaminess and depth of your Alfredo sauce.

Don't overlook the role of your zucchini noodles. The key here is to choose firm, fresh zucchinis that are free of blemishes. A tip for spiralizing: make sure your zucchini is dry to prevent excess moisture in the dish, which can dilute the sauce and make it watery. You can prevent a soggier texture by salting the zoodles ahead of time to draw out moisture effectively.

Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is the star of this dish, so mastering it is crucial. When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it—cook until it’s fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor. Once you add the heavy cream, keep the heat medium; bringing it to a gentle simmer allows flavors to meld without boiling over or curdling the cream. Stir constantly as you incorporate the Parmesan to ensure it melts evenly, resulting in a glossy, cohesive sauce.

Consider the seasoning carefully; a pinch of nutmeg isn't just a nostalgic touch—it enhances the creaminess and rounds out the flavors beautifully. Always taste your sauce before serving to ensure the balance of salt and pepper is just right. If the sauce becomes too thick, feel free to thin it out with a splash of pasta water or additional cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Storing and Reheating Your Dish

If you need to make this dish ahead of time, I recommend preparing the sauce and shrimp separately from the zoodles. This way, you can keep the flavors fresh and avoid mushy zucchini. The Alfredo sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan on low until warm, and add fresh zoodles to gently heat through while retaining their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture.

When it comes to freezing, the zoodles do not freeze well and can become watery when thawed. However, the Alfredo sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember to let it defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating, and stir in a little cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency if it separates.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles.

For the Alfredo Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Shrimp and Zoodles

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful dining experience!

Prepare the Zoodles

Spiralize the zucchinis and set them aside. You can also salt them lightly to draw out excess moisture, making them less watery.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Cook the Shrimp

In another skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Add the cooked shrimp to the Alfredo sauce.

Combine Everything

Add the spiralized zucchini to the skillet with the sauce and shrimp. Toss gently to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce before serving. This brings a brightness that complements the dish beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles makes for a beautiful presentation, but you can elevate it even further with a few garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not only color but a fresh herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the sauce. For some heat, consider a dash of red pepper flakes for an added kick that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.

Pairing this dish with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can balance the creaminess nicely. The acidity from the lemon will enhance the flavors and cleanse the palate between bites. If you're looking for a heartier option, crusty garlic bread makes for a great side, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Variations to Try

While this recipe highlights shrimp, other seafood like scallops or even chicken can be wonderful alternatives. For a vegetarian version, consider sautéed mushrooms or grilled asparagus as the main protein source. These options retain the luxurious feel of the dish without compromising the overall indulgence.

You can also play with the sauce ingredients by adding a splash of white wine after the garlic and before adding cream for an extra layer of flavor. If you're looking to make a lightened-up or dairy-free alternative, coconut milk can be a fantastic substitute for heavy cream, creating a unique twist while still keeping the dish creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used but make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ Are the zoodles crunchy?

When prepared correctly, zoodles retain a slight crunch, which adds a nice texture to the dish.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What variations can I try?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor!