How to Make Creamy Shrimp Alfredo: A Decadent Dinner in Minutes
Shrimp Alfredo is a luxurious pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines tender shrimp, a luscious Alfredo sauce, and pasta to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Follow this step-by-step guide to master this comforting classic.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp, season with paprika (if using), salt, and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Stir until fragrant.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until it begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss with the pasta and sauce.
- Allow everything to heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Shrimp Alfredo immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Alfredo
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated Parmesan.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery; cook until just pink and opaque.
- Customize the Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even penne.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Dreamy: The Alfredo sauce is rich and decadent.
- Quick and Easy: Dinner is ready in under 30 minutes!
- Restaurant Quality: A gourmet dish you can make at home for a fraction of the cost.
Shrimp Alfredo is a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines elegance and comfort in every bite. Give it a try and bring the magic of Italian-inspired cuisine to your kitchen!
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