Save A creamy, indulgent shrimp Alfredo pasta made effortlessly in the Instant Pot—straight from the freezer to your table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my home because it combines simplicity with rich flavor and convenience.
Ingredients
- Frozen raw shrimp: 1 pound (450 g), peeled and deveined
- Fettuccine or linguine: 12 ounces (340 g), broken in half
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (150 g), optional
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 1/2 cups (600 ml)
- Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon, optional
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Add the broken pasta to the Instant Pot, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 2:
- Pour in the chicken broth and scatter the minced garlic over the pasta.
- Step 3:
- Add the frozen shrimp directly on top of the pasta (do not stir).
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Step 5:
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Quick-release the pressure carefully as soon as the cooking time is up.
- Step 7:
- Open the lid, add the butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and frozen peas if using. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 8:
- Let the pasta sit for 2 3 minutes to thicken.
- Step 9:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Save This dish brings the family together on weeknights when time is short but quality meals are a must.
Notes
Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness or toss in baby spinach with the peas for extra nutrition.
Required Tools
6-quart (or larger) Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker, measuring cups and spoons, tongs or a large spoon.
Allergen Information
Contains shellfish (shrimp), dairy (cream, butter, Parmesan), wheat (pasta). May contain traces of gluten if using regular pasta. Always check labels for allergens.
Save This Instant Pot shrimp Alfredo pasta is the perfect blend of speed and flavor for busy nights.
Common recipe questions
- → Can frozen shrimp be cooked directly with pasta?
Yes, placing frozen shrimp on top of the pasta allows for even cooking without stirring, ensuring tender results.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine or linguine broken in half are ideal as they fit well in the cooker and absorb the sauce nicely.
- → How do you prevent the sauce from separating?
Adding butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese after pressure cooking and stirring well helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
Yes, crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be increased or omitted to control heat according to preference.
- → What are good side suggestions to serve with this meal?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a fresh green salad complements the rich flavors perfectly.