Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo

Name: Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles; 8 oz shrimp, deveined and peeled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I absolutely love making Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo because it’s a guilt-free twist on a classic dish. The combination of spiralized zucchini and succulent shrimp creates a meal that feels indulgent without the heaviness of traditional pasta. When I prepare this dish, the creamy alfredo sauce coats every noodle perfectly, making each bite satisfying. It’s easy to whip up on a weeknight yet fancy enough for dinner guests. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’ll love how vibrant and delicious this dish is!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T16:14:19.790Z

When I first tried making Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would come together without traditional pasta. To my delight, the zucchini noodles soaked up the creamy sauce beautifully, and the shrimp added a wonderful texture. The key is to cook the shrimp quickly so they remain tender and juicy while only slightly cooking the noodles to maintain their crunch.

I learned that by seasoning the shrimp while it cooks and reserving a bit of the pasta water adds a layer of moisture to the sauce. It’s a game changer! This dish now makes frequent appearances on my dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy alternative to traditional fettuccine
Quick and easy weeknight dinner
Creamy alfredo sauce that satisfies
Packed with flavor and color from fresh ingredients

Choosing the Perfect Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this dish, look for firm, medium-sized ones. Larger zucchinis tend to have more seeds and a watery texture, which can dilute the flavor of your dish. Aim for zucchinis that are bright green and have a smooth skin. This will not only enhance the visual appeal of your Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo but also ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite.

An excellent technique for spiralizing zucchini is to use a spiralizer tool, which creates long, noodle-like strands. If you don’t own a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can also be used to create thinner strands, but the texture might differ. Keep in mind that you should not spiralize too far in advance, as the noodles can release moisture, becoming soggy; preparing them just before cooking is ideal.

Getting the Alfredo Sauce Just Right

For a truly luscious alfredo sauce, choose high-quality heavy cream. This ingredient is critical as it contributes to the rich, creamy texture that defines alfredo. While you could substitute half-and-half in a pinch, it will alter the luxurious mouthfeel of the sauce. Cooking the sauce over medium-low heat allows the cream to simmer gently, which is essential for achieving that perfect glossy finish without boiling it too vigorously.

Always remember to stir the Parmesan cheese into the cream once it is warm but not boiling. This helps the cheese melt evenly and prevents clumping. If you find your sauce too thick, a splash of pasta water or broth can loosen it without compromising flavor. When adjusting the consistency, go slow—adding too much liquid at once can lead to a watery sauce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
8 oz shrimp, deveined and peeled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to wash and dry the zucchinis well before spiralizing for the best texture.

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

In the same skillet, add the spiralized zucchini noodles. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Do not overcook.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing well to combine.

Combine and Serve

Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss everything together for about 1 minute to coat the noodles in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pair this dish with a light salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be mindful that zucchini noodles may release water upon storage, which could lead to a soggy texture when reheated. To combat this, separate the sauce and noodles prior to storage if possible; reheat them separately in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

To reheat, add a tablespoon of olive oil to a skillet over medium-low heat. This will not only warm the dish but also help revitalize the zucchini. Stir gently until heated through, around 3-5 minutes. If the dish appears dry, a tiny splash of cream or broth can help restore the original creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an added layer of flavor, consider garnishing your Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Alfredo with freshly grated lemon zest or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A side of garlic bread compliments the creamy sauce beautifully, making it a complete meal that's satisfying for both you and your guests.

This recipe is easily customizable. You can swap shrimp for grilled chicken, scallops, or even sautéed mushrooms if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Additionally, incorporating seasonal vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or spinach, can enhance both the nutritional value and presentation of your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can try using spiralized carrots, squash, or even cauliflower rice for a different flavor.

→ How can I make it dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the zucchini noodles and shrimp in advance and combine them just before serving.

→ What should I serve it with?

This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.