There’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy shrimp alfredo to warm you up and satisfy your cravings. The perfect balance of rich, velvety Parmesan sauce combined with juicy shrimp and tender fettuccine makes for an irresistible meal. This dish is quick enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend treat. Whether you’re cooking for one or a whole family, this shrimp alfredo is sure to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine. Toss in the fettuccine pasta and mix until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 620 per serving
Servings: 4
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo: A Luxuriously Smooth Dish Perfect for Any Occasion
If you’re craving a decadent, rich, and flavorful pasta dish, this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo is the perfect recipe. It combines the classic Alfredo sauce with succulent shrimp, making it a seafood lover’s dream. The creamy sauce, made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, coats each strand of pasta beautifully. Paired with tender shrimp, this dish is an indulgence that will impress your family and guests alike.
This recipe is also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s a great way to enjoy restaurant-quality Italian cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Alfredo:
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Frozen shrimp can work, but make sure to pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be mindful of the timing. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Make the Sauce Creamy: The heavy cream is the key to a rich, velvety sauce. If you want an even thicker sauce, you can use half-and-half or add a little more Parmesan.
- Pasta Tips: You can use any pasta you prefer, but fettuccine works best with this Alfredo sauce. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente (slightly firm) to avoid it becoming too mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Garnish for Flavor and Color: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added cheesy goodness.
- Customize the Heat: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or on top of the finished dish. This adds a nice contrast to the creamy richness.
Variations:
- Chicken Alfredo: If you prefer chicken over shrimp, swap the shrimp for boneless, skinless chicken breast. Simply sauté the chicken pieces until fully cooked and follow the recipe as directed.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. You can even add a bit of spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Lighter Version: To make a lighter version of this dish, you can replace the heavy cream with whole milk or a milk and Greek yogurt mixture. The sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Despite its gourmet flavor, this recipe is simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and under 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The key to a great Alfredo sauce is the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy. The heavy cream makes the sauce indulgent, while the Parmesan adds the perfect amount of savory depth.
- Versatile: This dish can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer a little heat or want to add extra vegetables, the possibilities are endless.
How to Make the Perfect Creamy Shrimp Alfredo:
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Be sure to peel and devein them before cooking. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp Just Right: Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so be careful to cook them for only 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet immediately to avoid overcooking.
- The Alfredo Sauce: The secret to a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce lies in the balance of heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer the cream and chicken broth gently, then add the cheese gradually to ensure it melts smoothly. For an extra velvety texture, let the sauce simmer for a few minutes before adding the shrimp back in.
- Toss with Fresh Pasta: For the perfect finish, toss your cooked fettuccine or pasta of choice in the creamy Alfredo sauce. The pasta will absorb the sauce, creating a rich, flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish. These will not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
- Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Wine Pairing: For a delightful pairing, serve your shrimp Alfredo with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity in the wine cuts through the creamy sauce, complementing the dish perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This dish is best served fresh, as the pasta can absorb the sauce and become soft over time. However, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little butter. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo is a rich, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce and tender shrimp over fettuccine pasta are sure to impress. Customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Whether for a weeknight or special dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Enjoy, and share your version with us!