Name: Creamy Pesto Shrimp Alfredo
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 pound (500 g) jumbo shrimp (or prawns), tails on or off; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced; 4 ounces (120g) grape tomatoes; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1 cup half and half or heavy cream* SEE NOTES; 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese, divided; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Directions

1
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for a further minute until shrimp starts to change colour and garlic is fragrant.
2
Reduce heat to low-medium heat. Add pesto, half & half (or heavy cream) and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix and scrape any bits off of the bottom of the pan.
3
Gently simmer for a further minute or two until shrimp is cooked, the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese has melted through. Sprinkle with parsley or basil and remaining parmesan cheese.
4
Serve immediately over pasta, rice, steamed veg, zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

About this Recipe

Looking for a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in minutes? This Creamy Pesto Shrimp Alfredo delivers rich flavors and tender shrimp for an effortless weeknight indulgence.

With plump jumbo shrimp, vibrant basil pesto, and a decadent creamy sauce, this recipe masterfully blends classic comfort with fresh, bright flavors. It's a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can create a truly satisfying dish in very little time, making it perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing gourmet taste.

Imagine succulent jumbo shrimp enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, brightened by the aromatic essence of fresh basil pesto. Each bite offers the richness of Parmesan and cream, complemented by the sweet, juicy pop of grape tomatoes and the pungent warmth of minced garlic. This dish promises a comforting yet elegant experience, perfect for when you desire something special without a lengthy cooking process. The preparation is straightforward, leading to a sophisticated dish that feels far more complex than its short cooking time suggests.

Feel free to adjust the amount of minced garlic to your liking for a bolder or milder flavor profile. While the recipe specifies grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes make a fine substitute. For a finishing touch, experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the fresh parsley or basil if you enjoy a subtle hint of heat.

Serve this luxurious Creamy Pesto Shrimp Alfredo over your favorite pasta for a complete and satisfying meal, or alongside warm crusty garlic bread and a simple green salad to perfectly complement the rich sauce.

Creamy Pesto Shrimp Alfredo

Ingredients

Directions