Experience the delightful combination of succulent shrimp and rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with fettuccine pasta. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a quick and easy solution for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its luscious flavors and comforting texture, shrimp fettuccine alfredo is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 25g protein. Please note that nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drain the cooked fettuccine and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a different flavor. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp fettuccine alfredo pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. For added freshness, serve alongside steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. It’s best not to freeze this dish, as the cream may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them rubbery.
- Not using enough salt in the pasta water can affect flavor.
- Adding cheese too quickly can lead to clumping.
- Using low-quality cheese may result in a less creamy sauce.
- Skipping the garlic can diminish the dish’s flavor profile.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Make sure the cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling.
- Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make shrimp fettuccine alfredo without cream?
Yes, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking for a spicy kick.
Is it possible to use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.
What type of pasta works best for alfredo?
Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or linguine.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and combine with cooked pasta just before serving.
Conclusion
Shrimp fettuccine alfredo is a classic dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Perfect for any occasion, this creamy pasta dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked fettuccine and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
