Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy, cheesy sauce with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine, you’re in for a treat. Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine is a timeless pasta dish that’s beloved for many reasons. First, it’s quick to make, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes. The creamy Alfredo sauce, made from heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, clings beautifully to the fettuccine noodles, creating a luscious coating with every bite. The shrimp add a tender and slightly sweet contrast, complementing the richness of the sauce perfectly. Plus, the garlic-infused olive oil base adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies to suit your taste.

Your Shopping Guide

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta: Look for quality pasta that cooks to al dente, providing the perfect texture for this creamy dish.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp, medium to large size works best for a meaty bite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and aroma.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that authentic, aromatic base.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the rich, velvety texture that makes the sauce so indulgent.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and offers a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Chopped parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh, bright finish to the plate.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large pot: For boiling the fettuccine pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the shrimp and prepare the Alfredo sauce in one pan.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
• Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese to enhance the sauce flavor.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To stir the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
• Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.

Stepwise Method: Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust your sauce consistency if needed. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Base

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir frequently and let it come to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the Alfredo sauce. Add the drained fettuccine and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Extra veggies: Add steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
• Cheese alternatives: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you want a slightly different cheese flavor.

Little Things that Matter

Using fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated powder makes a big difference in the sauce’s texture and flavor. Also, don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left on heat too long. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency; the starchy water helps the sauce cling better to the noodles. For an extra touch, serve alongside a warm Alfredo Bread Bowl Recipe that soaks up every bit of that creamy sauce perfectly.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, separate the shrimp from the pasta and sauce, freezing them individually for best texture retention. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a little cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet, which can affect the sauce texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Keep in mind the sauce might be less thick and creamy but still delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid boiling it. Stir continuously as you add the cheese and incorporate reserved pasta water slowly to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp and pasta separately in advance and combine them just before serving. This keeps the shrimp from overcooking and the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.

More from the Kitchen

• Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe – Another fantastic shrimp and pasta dish with a zesty garlic butter sauce.
• Alfredo Bread Bowl Recipe – Perfect for soaking up creamy Alfredo sauce and adding a fun twist to your meal.

The Takeaway

Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine offers a perfect balance of creamy sauce, succulent seafood, and tender pasta. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough to impress guests. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a luscious dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward to make. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready to savor a silky, garlicky, cheesy meal that satisfies every craving. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!

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