Shrimp Alfredo Pasta: A Creamy and Delicious Classic

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, luxurious dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Featuring tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!

What Is Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a popular Italian-American dish that combines fettuccine (or your pasta of choice) with shrimp and a creamy Alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, creates a velvety texture that perfectly complements the shrimp and pasta. This dish is known for its comforting and indulgent flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Works with different pasta types and proteins.
• Rich and Flavorful: The perfect blend of garlic, Parmesan, and cream.
• Impressive Yet Simple: A restaurant-quality meal made at home.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups (475 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated in the sauce.

Serving

1. Transfer to serving plates or a large dish.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for a sophisticated touch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

• While pasta dishes with cream sauce don’t freeze well, you can freeze the cooked shrimp separately for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, scallops, or tofu instead of shrimp.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta.
• Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
• Vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie Alfredo.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking.

What other cheeses can I use?
While Parmesan is traditional, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes.

Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, but reheat it gently and whisk in a little cream to restore the texture before combining with pasta.

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a classic comfort food that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!

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