Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe: A Creamy, Dreamy Delight
Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but short on time and effort? Look no further! This easy shrimp Alfredo recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious dish in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a romantic meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
What You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for spontaneous cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your creamy shrimp Alfredo masterpiece:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Create the Alfredo Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the Alfredo sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the shrimp tough.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley (optional).
Tips and Variations for Your Shrimp Alfredo:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the creamy flavor.
- Cream cheese: For a richer, thicker sauce, stir in 2-4 ounces of softened cream cheese along with the Parmesan cheese.
- Make it ahead: The Alfredo sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before adding the shrimp and pasta.
This easy shrimp Alfredo recipe is a fantastic weeknight meal that will impress your family and friends. It's quick, delicious, and customizable to your liking. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy your creamy, dreamy shrimp Alfredo! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
