Description
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Rigatoni
Ingredients
:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni or pasta of your choice
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Optional Garnish:
Red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Cook the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add Italian seasoning and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked rigatoni in the Alfredo sauce until fully coated. Add the cooked shrimp and toss gently to combine.
Plate the pasta and garnish with red pepper flakes, parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese.
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich and comforting dish perfect for seafood and pasta lovers!
With its luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, prep all ingredients before heating any pans. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding the tablespoon of salt and pasta. While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp. Use the same skillet for the shrimp and sauce to build flavor. When making the Alfredo sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating and add the Parmesan gradually while whisking constantly. Finally, combine the pasta, sauce, and shrimp off the heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread for dipping, or steamed asparagus or broccoli. For a restaurant-style touch, present it in a warmed serving bowl. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: boil rigatoni, reserving pasta water. Season and sauté shrimp until pink, then set aside. In the same pan, make a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, simmering cream, and whisking in Parmesan. Toss pasta and shrimp in the sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the very end just to warm through. Cooking them longer will make them rubbery.
2. How can I make this dish lighter?
Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or use a lighter Alfredo sauce base. Be careful not to boil the milk.
3. My sauce broke or became grainy. How do I fix it?
The heat was likely too high. Remove from heat and vigorously whisk in a splash of hot pasta water or more cream until it re-emulsifies.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. The sauce can thicken upon sitting. Reheat gently with added cream or pasta water.
5. What’s the best Parmesan to use?
Always use freshly grated Parmesan from a block. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Using high heat for the sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate or the cheese to clump. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Adding all the Parmesan at once: Whisk it in gradually to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Rigatoni is a decadent yet straightforward meal that feels special enough for company. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a luxuriously smooth sauce is truly irresistible. Don’t forget the final garnishes—they add the perfect finishing touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your culinary creation!