Description
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Cheese: Whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 540 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof Spicy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo. First, ensure your shrimp are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined. As your heavily salted pasta water comes to a boil, begin cooking the shrimp. The key is to not overcrowd your skillet; cook in batches if necessary to get a good sear. After removing the shrimp, build your sauce in the same pan to capture all the flavorful bits. When adding the cream, let it simmer gently to reduce slightly and thicken. Whisk the Parmesan in gradually over low heat to prevent clumping. Finally, toss the al dente pasta and shrimp in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to every strand.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is best balanced with light, fresh accompaniments. Serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus. For a restaurant-style touch, garnish with extra red pepper flakes, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese. A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly to cut through the creaminess. Serve immediately in warmed bowls to keep the pasta at its peak texture and temperature.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta, reserving water. Sear seasoned shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in butter. Add cream and simmer. Whisk in Parmesan to create the sauce. Toss pasta and shrimp in the sauce, thinning with pasta water as needed. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Diced chicken, scallops, or even pan-seared mushrooms make excellent substitutes for the shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. How can I make this dish less spicy? Simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely or reduce the amount to 1/4 teaspoon for just a hint of warmth.
3. My sauce seems too thin. How do I thicken it? Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also add an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese, which will help thicken it as it melts.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Cream-based sauces are best served fresh. For meal prep, cook the components separately and combine them with a splash of cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s consistency.
5. What’s the best substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Do not use milk, as it is likely to curdle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Always grate your own Parmesan from a block.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helping it adhere to the pasta. Don’t forget this step.
- Adding Cheese Over High Heat: High heat can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy. Always add Parmesan to a gently simmering sauce and whisk constantly.
Conclusion
This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo is a deceptively simple yet impressively flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of succulent shrimp, a creamy, garlic-infused sauce, and a kick of heat makes it a universally satisfying comfort food. Experiment with the spice level and sides to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious results.