Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Introduction

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that combines shrimp and a rich Alfredo sauce. This meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its comforting flavors and appealing presentation, Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo will surely impress anyone at your table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is simple to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. Second, it is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of garlic, shrimp, and Parmesan cheese. Lastly, it provides a satisfying taste experience that combines the richness of the Alfredo sauce with the lightness of shrimp. It’s a perfect meal for both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts!

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Ingredients:

1 pound fettuccini pasta
1 tablespoon butter
1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup half-and-half
6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste

Directions:

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook the fettuccine in the boiling water until it is tender yet still firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta.
In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.
Pour the half-and-half into the skillet and stir. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, one tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and smooth.
Mix in the chopped parsley and season with salt. Allow the sauce to simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
Finally, stir the cooked fettuccine into the sauce until it is evenly coated. Serve hot.

How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal.

How to Store Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days. To reheat, add a little water or more half-and-half to the pasta to prevent it from becoming too thick when warmed.

Tips to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can work if thawed properly.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
Add a bit of lemon juice for a bright flavor if you like.
Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients and color.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different proteins, such as chicken or scallops. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?
A1: Yes, you can use raw shrimp. Just make sure to cook them in the skillet until they are pink and firm before adding the half-and-half.

Q2: Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
A2: Absolutely! You can swap out the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. Just make sure to cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.