Indulge in the rich flavors of Shrimp Alfredo, a classic Italian-American dish that’s both creamy and comforting. Perfect for dinner parties or a weeknight treat, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a luscious Alfredo sauce over pasta. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that captures the essence of indulgent Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of Shrimp Alfredo (about 1 cup) contains approximately 500 calories, 30g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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 season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the fettuccine with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or spaghetti. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider using zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp Alfredo pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them rubbery.
- Using pre-grated cheese may result in a less creamy sauce.
- Not letting the cream simmer long enough can leave the sauce thin.
- Skipping the pasta water can prevent sauce adherence.
- Adding salt too early can toughen the shrimp.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
Is Shrimp Alfredo gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes, Shrimp Alfredo can be a gluten-free dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for extra heat.
Can I make Shrimp Alfredo without cheese?
Yes, you can create a creamy sauce using pureed cashews or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
What other proteins can I use instead of shrimp?
Chicken, scallops, or even sautéed vegetables can be excellent alternatives in this Alfredo dish.
Conclusion
Shrimp Alfredo is a delectable dish that combines the richness of cream and cheese with the delicate flavor of shrimp. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time!
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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 season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
