Shrimp Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that’s beloved for its creamy, rich sauce and succulent shrimp. This dish combines the luxurious flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic with tender, juicy shrimp, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Best of all, it can be whipped up in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests when you’re short on time. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious Shrimp Alfredo recipe.
Ingredients Needed for Shrimp Alfredo
To make Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful dish. The shrimp adds a delightful protein element, while the Parmesan and cream make the sauce irresistibly creamy. Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Preparing the Shrimp
The first step in making Shrimp Alfredo is preparing the shrimp. If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. This can be done by making a shallow cut along the back of each shrimp and removing the black vein with a knife or your fingers. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Once seasoned, set the shrimp aside as you prepare the other components of the dish.
Cooking the Pasta
While preparing the shrimp, start cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. This means it should be cooked but still firm to the bite. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. The reserved pasta water can be used later to adjust the consistency of your Alfredo sauce, ensuring it’s perfectly creamy.
Sautéing the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let the cream simmer for about 2 minutes, then gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Everything
Once the Alfredo sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix until everything is well combined and heated through. The shrimp should be fully coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce, making each bite rich and flavorful.
Serving the Shrimp Alfredo
To serve, divide the Shrimp Alfredo among plates or shallow bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. You can also sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan on top for added flavor. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of homemade Shrimp Alfredo. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a slice of garlic bread.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Alfredo
For the best Shrimp Alfredo, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: Use the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Serve immediately: Alfredo sauce can thicken as it cools, so it’s best to serve the dish right away.
Conclusion
Shrimp Alfredo is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that you can prepare in just 15 minutes. With its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a surefire way to impress. So next time you’re in need of a speedy and satisfying meal, give this Shrimp Alfredo recipe a try. Enjoy!