If you’re craving a creamy, dreamy pasta dish without the carbs, this Keto Shrimp Alfredo with Zucchini Noodles is your new best friend! It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with garlicky shrimp goodness—all while keeping things light and keto-friendly. Plus, it comes together in less time than it takes to decide on takeout. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the perfect blend of indulgent and healthy—it feels like comfort food but won’t knock you out of ketosis! Plus, it’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for date night.
- Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs but high in flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Creamy & Garlicky: Every bite is packed with rich Alfredo flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for delicious leftovers.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen (thawed) works too.
- Don’t overcook the zucchini noodles—they should be just tender, not mushy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded for a creamier sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: If using a spiralizer, cut zucchini into noodles and set aside. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook until thickened (about 3 minutes). Season with red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Everything: Add shrimp back to the pan, stirring to coat in sauce. Toss in zucchini noodles and gently mix for 1-2 minutes until just warmed.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Prevent Watery Zoodles: Sprinkle spiralized zucchini with salt and let sit for 10 minutes before patting dry.
- Use Tongs to Toss: This helps evenly coat the zoodles in sauce without breaking them.
- Adjust the Sauce: If it gets too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or extra cream.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add Protein: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or seared salmon.
- Go Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
- Spice it Up: Toss in crushed red pepper or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
- Garnish Ideas: Fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon brings extra brightness to the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the components separately and combine just before serving to keep the zucchini noodles fresh.
Recipe Card
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Spiralize and dry zucchini noodles.
- Cook seasoned shrimp in olive oil and set aside.
- Make Alfredo sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, then adding cream and cheese.
- Return shrimp to pan and toss in zucchini noodles.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Hungry for more keto-friendly and delicious recipes? Let me know if you try this out—I’d love to hear how you made it your own! Snap a pic, tag me on social, and share the love. Happy cooking! ❤️
