Description
This classic Shrimp Alfredo recipe features tender, succulent shrimp served over fettuccine noodles tossed in a rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this gourmet-style meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 lb fettuccine noodles (or favorite kind of pasta)
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, thawed and peeled, tails optional
Alfredo Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 cups)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter (for cooking shrimp)
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Parmesan cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese and allow it to come to room temperature for easier melting into the sauce.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often to thicken slightly. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Coat the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to ensure every strand is coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Cook the shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
- Serve: Plate the Alfredo-coated pasta and top with cooked shrimp. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- This recipe is a quick gourmet meal that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoothest sauce texture.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they cook very fast and become rubbery if left too long.
- Feel free to substitute the fettuccine with your favorite pasta shape.
- For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though this will affect richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 879 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1132 mg
- Fat: 56 g
- Saturated Fat: 32 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 353 mg
