When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a rich, creamy Shrimp Alfredo. With succulent shrimp, a velvety Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Let’s dive into this restaurant-quality recipe you can whip up in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
Each ingredient in this dish contributes to its luxurious texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fettuccine Pasta (12 oz) – The perfect vehicle for creamy Alfredo sauce. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Large Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined) – Fresh or frozen works fine, but ensure they’re thawed and patted dry for even cooking.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds richness and is key to a silky sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Heavy Cream (1 ½ cups) – The base of the Alfredo sauce; provides the creamy consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the shrimp to golden perfection.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – A garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
Prep Tip
Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh from a block instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll have an impressive meal ready in no time:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season
Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Shrimp Alfredo to serving plates or a large platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed for This Recipe
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
- Whisk for a smooth sauce
- Tongs for tossing pasta in the sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine is traditional, linguine, spaghetti, or even penne work beautifully with Alfredo sauce.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. Adding a touch of cream cheese can help thicken it.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Shrimp Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately in advance. Reheat gently and combine before serving.
How do I keep the sauce from breaking?
Cook the sauce over low to medium heat and avoid boiling it. Stirring frequently and adding cheese gradually helps maintain its creamy texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely, pat dry, and cook as directed.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
Is there a way to lighten this recipe?
For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons. Use less cheese, but note the sauce will be less creamy.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve fallen in love with the idea of making this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo. It’s a dish that’s as indulgent as it is easy to prepare. Whether for a romantic dinner or a family feast, this recipe never fails to impress.
If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for later. Bon appétit! 🥂🍤
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