Why You’ll Love Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo combines the luxurious creaminess of Alfredo sauce with succulent shrimp, making it a perfect blend of savory and satisfying. The fettuccine pasta, coated in the rich sauce, serves as the ideal base to absorb all the flavors. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a delicious homemade meal. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can customize it by adding vegetables or different herbs if desired.

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta and shrimp in the Alfredo sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even lobster for a twist on the classic recipe.
Cheese Variations: For a more robust flavor, try using Asiago or Romano cheese in place of Parmesan.
Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, linguine, or spaghetti in place of fettuccine.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo fresh, as the sauce may thicken and the shrimp may become overcooked when reheated.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as using heavy cream.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to help thicken it.

5. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.

6. Can I freeze this recipe?

While it’s not ideal to freeze the entire dish due to the texture of the shrimp and sauce, you can freeze the Alfredo sauce and use it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp later.

7. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

The shrimp should be pink and opaque throughout. They will also curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked.

8. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

9. How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Using a high-fat heavy cream and adding extra Parmesan cheese will give the sauce an extra creamy texture.

10. Can I add more garlic to the recipe?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more to taste. Just be careful not to burn it while sautéing.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s quick to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the luxurious taste of homemade Alfredo with the delicate touch of shrimp!

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

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This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine. The alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, envelops the pasta and shrimp in a decadent layer of flavor. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream slightly thickens.
Combine: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix pasta and shrimp: Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.
Serve: Divide the shrimp fettuccine Alfredo into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.