Description
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Boil the fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to combine.
Serve and Garnish: Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof dish. First, ensure your shrimp are thoroughly patted dry to promote a good sear. When cooking the pasta, heavily salt the water—it should taste like the sea. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream; boiling can cause it to separate. Add the Parmesan cheese off the heat initially, whisking vigorously to melt it into the cream before returning to low heat. Toss the pasta in the sauce for a full minute to allow it to absorb the flavors before adding the shrimp back in.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a vegetable side, steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli are excellent choices. To elevate the meal, offer a side of warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, a crisp Pinot Grigio or a buttery Chardonnay complements the shrimp and cream sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta, reserve water. Sear seasoned shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, make a sauce with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. Toss pasta in sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Fold in shrimp, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them at the very end just to warm through to avoid a rubbery texture. Reduce initial cook time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. You can also use a lighter pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta.
My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it? Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also create a quick slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? Alfredo sauce is best served fresh, as it can separate upon reheating. You can prep ingredients (chop garlic, grate cheese) in advance, but cook just before serving.
What’s a good substitute for Parmesan? Aged Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese are excellent alternatives that will still provide a sharp, salty flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: This leads to a tough, rubbery texture. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These bags often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always grate your own cheese from a block.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to clump or the sauce to break. Remove the pan from heat or turn it very low when whisking in the Parmesan.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for helping the sauce cling to the pasta and adjusting consistency.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a classic, restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to make at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a luxurious and comforting meal in under 30 minutes. The key lies in quality ingredients, proper technique, and serving it immediately for the best texture and flavor. It’s a versatile recipe sure to become a favorite for any pasta night.