Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles

Name: Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

I absolutely love making Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles, especially when I'm craving something rich yet light. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy sauce, paired with zucchini noodles, offers a perfect balance. Each bite is satisfying without weighing me down. Plus, it's quick to whip up for dinner, making it a favorite in our home. This dish brings together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, allowing me to indulge without guilt. I can't wait to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:22:27.765Z

When I first experimented with zoodles, I was amazed at how well they paired with rich sauces like Alfredo. The key is to slightly salt the zucchini to draw out moisture, ensuring they stay al dente while soaking up all the flavors. This method keeps my dish feeling light and refreshing.

I also love using freshly grated Parmesan – it melts beautifully into the sauce, creating that creamy texture we all crave. Each time I make this recipe, it reminds me of summer gatherings, bringing a touch of nostalgia to my dining table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce without the heaviness
Zoodles add a fresh crunch and lower carbs
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Zoodles: The Perfect Pasta Substitute

Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, are not just a low-carb alternative; they bring a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. When spiralizing, opt for medium zucchinis to achieve a balance of texture and moisture. After spiralizing, tossing them with a pinch of salt helps draw out excess moisture, keeping your dish from becoming soggy when combined with the sauce.

One important tip is to ensure the zoodles are not overcooked. They only need a brief heat-up to maintain their integrity. A common mistake is letting them cook too long, which can lead to a mushy texture. Just a few minutes in the pan with the sauce is enough to add warmth without losing that essential crunch.

Mastering the Alfredo Sauce

This Alfredo sauce is rich and velvety, thanks to the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Using high-quality cheese makes a significant difference; it melts smoothly and enhances the dish's flavor profile. When adding in the cheese, stir continuously over low heat to prevent clumping. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water or additional cream can help reach your desired consistency.

A great technique for achieving that perfect creamy texture is to incorporate the cheese gradually. This not only helps it melt more uniformly but also prevents a grainy texture. If your sauce becomes too thick after cooling, don't hesitate to reheat it gently on low, adding another drizzle of cream if needed to achieve that luscious consistency again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started.

For the Shrimp Alfredo

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prep all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles.

Prepare the Zoodles

Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchinis into noodles. Set aside and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to draw out moisture.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds before adding the shrimp. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the zoodles to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Allow to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad for a complete dish.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or red pepper flakes in the Alfredo sauce for a kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles can be a fantastic meal prep option. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, cook the shrimp and make the Alfredo sauce, both of which can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just heat the sauce gently in a skillet and quickly sauté the zoodles to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Freezing is not advisable for this dish because the zoodles release moisture upon thawing, causing the texture to deteriorate. However, the Alfredo sauce can be frozen for up to a month. Just remember to reheat it slowly and whisk in a bit of cream to restore its creaminess.

Serving Ideas and Variations

For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein variations. Grilled chicken or sautéed scallops can elevate the dish further. If you are feeling adventurous, mix in other vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, which can enhance the flavor and color while contributing additional nutrients.

To brighten up the dish, a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving adds a fantastic zing that balances the richness of the sauce. Pair this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. It's versatile and can easily adapt to your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of zoodles?

Yes, you can absolutely use regular pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli would all be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.