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Delicious Creamy Lemon Pepper Alfredo with Blackened Shrimp recipe photo

Creamy Lemon Pepper Alfredo with Blackened Shrimp

This Creamy Lemon Pepper Alfredo with Blackened Shrimp is bursting with zesty, smoky flavors and rich, comforting creaminess. Perfect for quick, impressive weeknight dinners!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Colander
  • Grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well to create the blackened shrimp seasoning.
  3. Toss 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons olive oil and the blackened seasoning, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir frequently. Add 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
  5. Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Gently fold in the blackened shrimp. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to warm everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and spicy flavors.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the Alfredo sauce consistency as needed.
  • Watch shrimp closely when cooking to avoid overcooking; they cook quickly and are done when pink and opaque.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free options.