Description
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo is a rich, buttery pasta dish made with tender shrimp, a luscious Parmesan sauce, and fettuccine. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz fettuccine (or preferred pasta)
- Shrimp: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Butter: 4 tbsp, divided
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 ½ cups
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
- Salt: ½ tsp (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Nutmeg: ⅛ tsp (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp (freshly squeezed)
- Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
-
Prepare the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add remaining butter.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously, and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
-
Incorporate the Cheese
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.
-
Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
-
Add the Shrimp
- Return the shrimp to the pan and gently toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness.
-
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Cheese Mix: Blend Parmesan with Romano or Asiago for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Shrimp Alfredo, creamy pasta, easy seafood recipe, homemade Alfredo sauce, fettuccine Alfredo