Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – Rich & Comforting Italian Dinner

Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate indulgent yet hassle-free dinner. Combining tender, juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the stress. With just a few simple steps and a slow cooker, you’ll enjoy creamy, cheesy pasta infused with Italian seasoning and garlic, finished with fresh parsley for a bright touch. If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker seafood pasta, a creamy shrimp Alfredo recipe, or a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet approachable, this Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta checks every box, boasting velvety texture, rich flavor, and effortless prep.

Introduction

Seafood and creamy sauces are a match made in heaven, and this Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta takes that classic combination and makes it ultra-easy for home cooks. No standing over the stove or stirring constantly—just layer your ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and enjoy a rich, flavorful Italian-inspired dinner.

The slow cooker allows the fettuccine to cook gently in a blend of heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, and Italian herbs, absorbing maximum flavor. The shrimp are added toward the end to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Once the Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, you’re left with a silky, creamy pasta dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinner parties, or any evening when you want to serve a decadent seafood pasta with minimal effort. It’s creamy, garlicky, and satisfying, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • True set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker convenience
  • Rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce
  • Tender, perfectly cooked shrimp
  • Family-friendly and elegant enough for guests
  • Beginner-friendly with minimal prep
  • Reheats well for leftovers

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories: 650 per serving

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces Fettuccine pasta
  • 2 cups Heavy cream
  • 1 cup Chicken broth
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Function

Shrimp: Adds tender, succulent protein with subtle sweetness.

Fettuccine pasta: Absorbs the creamy sauce for perfect texture.

Heavy cream & Parmesan cheese: Form the rich, velvety Alfredo sauce.

Garlic and Italian seasoning: Build depth and aromatic flavor.

Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and adds savory balance.

Olive oil: Prevents sticking and enhances flavor.

Tools & Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or spoon for stirring
  • Cutting board and knife (for garlic and parsley)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  2. In the slow cooker, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup chicken broth, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until blended.
  3. Break 8 ounces fettuccine pasta in half and add it to the slow cooker. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours or on high for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, add 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
  6. Once the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley before serving.
  8. Serve immediately, spooning the creamy shrimp Alfredo over plates for a luxurious dinner.

Tips & Variations

Vegetarian option: Omit shrimp and use vegetables such as mushrooms or roasted zucchini for a creamy veggie Alfredo.

Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free fettuccine pasta.

Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free Parmesan.

Spice adjustment: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce Parmesan as noted in the original recipe.

Flavor Profile

This Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is rich, velvety, and indulgent. The heavy cream and Parmesan create a smooth, luxurious sauce, while garlic adds warmth and depth. Italian seasoning gives herbal brightness, balancing the richness.

The fettuccine absorbs the sauce for maximum flavor in every bite, while shrimp remain tender, succulent, and slightly sweet. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and subtle freshness to finish the dish.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (estimated):

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: Approximately 38g
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
  • Fat: Approximately 38g
  • Fiber: Approximately 2g

Contains dairy and gluten unless substitutions are made.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

  • Prepare garlic and chop parsley ahead of time to save prep minutes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if sauce thickens.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but add them 45 minutes before the end of cooking and ensure they are thawed first.

Will the pasta get mushy?
Adding the pasta at the start works in slow cookers if monitored; check for tenderness occasionally.

Can I make this in advance?
Yes, but add shrimp and Parmesan just before serving for best texture.

Can I substitute other pasta shapes?
Yes, linguine, penne, or fettuccine work well.

Cooking Timeline

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServings
15 minutes2 hours2 hours 15 minutes4

Serving Suggestions

Serve in shallow bowls with extra sauce spooned over the top. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for color and a light herbal note. For presentation, place shrimp evenly across plates for visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

  1. Add roasted cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness.
  2. Stir in spinach for added color and nutrients.
  3. Use a mixture of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor.
  4. Add lemon zest to the sauce before serving for brightness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp

Select firm, fresh, or properly thawed shrimp with shells removed. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days or freeze until needed.

Parmesan Cheese

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt and richest flavor. Pre-grated cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Keep the slow cooker lid closed to retain heat and moisture.
  • Stir gently when adding shrimp to prevent overcooking.
  • Add Parmesan gradually and stir thoroughly for smooth sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in airtight container.
Freezer: Not recommended due to cream-based sauce; cream may separate.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories650
Protein~38g
Carbs~45g
Fat~38g
Fiber~2g

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and gluten unless substitutions are made.

Expanded Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta delivers restaurant-quality richness with minimal effort. With tender shrimp, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this dish is indulgent, comforting, and family-friendly. It’s an easy way to elevate weeknight dinners into something special without standing over the stove. Save it, share it, and return to it whenever you want a luxurious, hassle-free Italian meal that fills both the plate and the kitchen with irresistible aroma.

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Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – Rich & Comforting Italian Dinner

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A rich and creamy shrimp Alfredo pasta cooked to perfection in your slow cooker, perfect for a hassle-free dinner.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Break fettuccine pasta in half and add to the slow cooker, ensuring pasta is submerged.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours until pasta is tender.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the shrimp and stir gently.
  6. Once shrimp are pink and cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and melted.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian

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