Description
A creamy and indulgent Shrimp Alfredo Pasta recipe featuring tender fettuccine noodles tossed in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce and topped with perfectly sautéed shrimp. This satisfying dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Alfredo Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese (about 2 cups)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Shrimp
- 1 lb fettuccine noodles (or favorite kind of pasta)
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, thawed and peeled, tails optional
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Parmesan Cheese: Grate the parmesan cheese if not pre-grated, and set it aside at room temperature to help it melt smoothly.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes while stirring often to thicken the sauce slightly. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat every strand.
- Cook Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Serve: Plate the Alfredo pasta and top with the cooked shrimp. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep them juicy and tender.
- You can substitute fettuccine with other pasta like linguine or penne based on preference.
- For a lighter version, reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream or use half-and-half.
- Leftover Alfredo sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
