Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, silky fettuccine, and a flavorful Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan makes for an irresistible meal. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, and will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined and heated through.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for added freshness and color.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Different Proteins: You can replace shrimp with chicken breast or scallops for a different twist on this classic.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream to reduce the richness of the sauce.
• Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but be sure to thaw them first before cooking for the best texture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and store it separately. Combine with the cooked pasta and shrimp when ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine.
4. What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream.
5. Can I make this recipe without garlic? If you’re not a fan of garlic, it can be omitted, but it does add a lot of flavor to the dish.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from separating? Make sure to cook the sauce on medium heat and stir frequently to prevent the cream from curdling.
7. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with other types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, for a different flavor profile.
8. How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
9. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, if you use pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end, just long enough to warm them through.
10. Is this dish gluten-free? This dish is not inherently gluten-free, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect comfort food for seafood lovers. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly coats the tender shrimp and fettuccine, making every bite indulgent and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to be a hit for any occasion. Enjoy it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

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