Description
Indulge in this classic Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This recipe combines the buttery, creamy goodness of homemade Alfredo sauce with tender shrimp, creating a delicious, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare at home. Ideal for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner, this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo will satisfy both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce is creamy and cheese has melted.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and add cooked fettuccine. Toss well to coat the pasta and shrimp with the Alfredo sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, large shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce: Making the Alfredo sauce from scratch is key to achieving a smooth and creamy consistency. Be sure to use heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
- Cooking the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so it’s best to cook them quickly over high heat for a tender bite.
- Pasta Water: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce and ensure it clings to the fettuccine perfectly.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: To add extra nutrition and flavor, feel free to incorporate sautéed vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms into the dish.
- Reheating Tips: Alfredo sauce can thicken as it cools. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream and reheat over low heat to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.