Name: Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp (fully thawed, peeled, and deveined); Salt and black pepper (to season); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 5 tablespoons butter (divided); 12 ounces fettuccine pasta; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated); Fresh parsley (to garnish)

Introduction

Shrimp Alfredo is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce tossed with fettuccine pasta. It’s a quick yet impressive meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting pasta will satisfy any craving for something indulgent and flavorful.

A white pan filled with shrimp fettuccine Alfredo shows three layers: the bottom creamy white sauce, the middle pale yellow fettuccine pasta in thick, flat ribbons, and the top orange shrimp pieces scattered evenly, with chopped green parsley sprinkled on top. Around the pan, there are small white bowls with green herbs, grated cheese, and coarse black pepper, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound raw shrimp (fully thawed, peeled, and deveined)

Salt and black pepper (to season)

5 tablespoons butter (divided)

1 tablespoon olive oil

12 ounces fettuccine pasta

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Fresh parsley (to garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden, pink, and just cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 5: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.

Step 6: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until slightly thickened (do not boil).

Step 7: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 8: Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 9: Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional black pepper, if desired, then serve right away.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.

If you prefer, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to make a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking garlic for a subtle spicy kick.

For an extra touch, toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach before adding the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure proper searing.

What can I use instead of fettuccine?

Any pasta shape will work, such as linguine, spaghetti, or even penne. Adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.

Dinner

Shrimp Alfredo Recipe