If you are looking to indulge in a creamy, comforting dish that whips up quickly and delights every time, this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is the answer. It combines tender shrimp with a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that feels both luxurious and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or craving something cozy any night of the week, this recipe promises to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Although this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe might look impressive on the plate, the ingredients list is beautifully simple yet essential. Each component plays a crucial role, from giving the sauce its creamy texture to imparting flavorful bursts that elevate every bite.
- 8 oz shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp add a sweet, tender protein that pairs perfectly with creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The classic choice for Alfredo, its broad ribbons hold onto the sauce splendidly.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the silky base of the Alfredo sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the shrimp.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides that luscious creaminess that makes Alfredo so indulgent.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, lending a slightly nutty, salty dimension.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of vibrant green adds freshness and color at the end.
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Shrimp
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until just al dente, which usually means a minute or two less than the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, season your shrimp with a bit of salt and pepper and sauté it in a hot skillet with a teaspoon of butter or olive oil until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking locks in juiciness and prevents them from getting rubbery.
Step 2: Create the Alfredo Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned—this step is key to building a rich flavor foundation. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly while stirring often.
Step 3: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to make the flavors pop.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce a touch. Add the fettuccine and sautéed shrimp into the sauce, gently tossing everything together to coat perfectly. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of pasta water will make it silky and cling flawlessly to every strand.
How to Serve Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it brightens the rich sauce and gives a lovely herbal contrast. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top also adds a delicious salty kick that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
To balance the richness of the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette are also perfect companions, soaking up any leftover sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, try serving Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a twist of lemon on the side for those who like a hint of brightness. You can also elevate the look by topping the dish with sautéed cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the sauce thickens as it cools, it may need a bit of loosening when reheated.
Freezing
Due to the cream-based sauce, freezing is not recommended as the sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave using short bursts. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and stir frequently. This careful attention keeps the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe tasting just as delicious as when first made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
Is there a lighter version of this Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
You can substitute half and half or a mixture of milk and a small amount of cream for the heavy cream to lighten up the dish, though it won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
What pasta alternatives work well with Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional, but linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne can all work if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh spinach folded in just before serving are fantastic additions that complement the flavors beautifully.
How do I know when the sauce is the right consistency?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. It will thicken slightly as it cools, so keep it a little looser while cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a wonderful blend of creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness paired with succulent shrimp that makes every meal feel special. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in. Once you make it, I’m sure it will hold a favorite spot in your recipe collection just like it does in mine!
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Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and comforting Shrimp Alfredo recipe featuring tender shrimp in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian-American dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying dinner for two.
Ingredients
Shrimp Alfredo Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and shrimp: Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the Shrimp Alfredo and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and reduce the amount of butter.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley or basil can be used as a substitute.
- To enhance flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated nutmeg into the sauce along with the garlic.
- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice to the shrimp for a subtle citrus brightness.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
