Description
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Savor the perfect combination of juicy, seared shrimp and creamy Alfredo sauce tossed with tender pasta. This easy, indulgent dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine or linguine
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Sear the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly. Top with the seared shrimp.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
Chef’s Tip: For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering.
Enjoy this creamy and comforting shrimp Alfredo that’s as good as any restaurant dish!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a flawless result. First, prep all ingredients before starting (mise en place). Begin boiling heavily salted pasta water. As it heats, season your shrimp. Use a large skillet to sear shrimp in batches to avoid steaming; remove them just as they turn opaque. For the sauce, ensure your skillet is on medium heat to prevent the garlic from burning when you add the butter. After adding the cream and cheese, stir constantly in a figure-eight motion for even thickening. Finally, combine the drained pasta directly into the sauce with a splash of the pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles before topping with shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta immediately for the best texture. Serve alongside a crisp Caesar or arugula salad to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread is a classic companion for soaking up extra sauce. For a complete meal, add a simple side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and shrimp.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and drain pasta. Sear seasoned shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, make a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, then simmering with cream, Parmesan, and seasoning. Toss the pasta in the sauce, top with shrimp, garnish, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? It’s not recommended, as they can become rubbery when reheated in the sauce. Raw shrimp seared in the pan yields the best texture.
How can I make this sauce lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but note the sauce will be slightly less thick and rich.
My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it? Let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes while stirring. You can also add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time? Alfredo sauce is best served fresh, as it can separate upon reheating. Prep ingredients in advance, but cook just before serving.
What’s a good Parmesan cheese substitute? For a similar salty, umami flavor, use Pecorino Romano. Avoid pre-grated cheese in bags, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough and chewy.
- Using high heat for the sauce, which can cause the cream to curdle or the garlic to burn.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently, as this is your main chance to season the pasta itself.
- Adding cold cheese directly to a very hot sauce, which can cause clumping. Let the sauce cool slightly or use finely grated cheese.
- Rinsing the cooked pasta, which removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a deceptively simple dish that delivers restaurant-quality indulgence right at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently perfect, creamy, and flavorful meal. It’s a versatile recipe that serves as a fantastic foundation for your own culinary twists. Gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this timeless, comforting classic tonight.