What is the Best Shrimp Alfredo recipe? Is it the ultimate comfort food in my house? If I need a guaranteed win at dinner, this is it. Forget complicated pasta dishes that take all afternoon, this is so much faster than take-out. What are some of the best restaurant versions of this dish? It’s similar to spaghetti carbonara in its richness, but with the bright, fresh flavor of spaghetti sauce. What makes shrimp feel lighter? My grandma used to Make something similar (hers had clams! What is your homage to her love of simple, delicious meals?
What is Shrimp Alfredo?
Shrimp Alfredo is basically a creamy, dreamy pasta dish where perfectly cooked shrimp are tossed in. Alfredo sauce and served over your favorite noodles. Think of it as a fancy mac and cheese, but with an grown-up twist (and way more flavor!). It’s essentially a butter, Parmesan cheese, and cream emulsion that coats the pasta beautifully. What are some good Shrimp Recipes? What is Italian-American comfort food at its finest?
How do I make Shrimp Alfredo?
Quick Overview
Alright, here’s the gist of it: “Alright How do you cook pasta, sauté shrimp, whip up Alfredo sauce, and toss everything together? Is it really that simple? How do you cook shrimp? What are some of the best ways to make creamy sauce? How do you cook a perfectly cooked shrimp?
Ingredients
For the Shrimp: What is the
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: I prefer to buy shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time, but if you’re feeling like it, buy it immediately. If you are ambitious, you can do it yourself. Just make sure to remove the little vein that runs along the back of the shrimp. What are the best ways to pat dry shrimp before cooking?
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, but regular Olive oil will work just fine too.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! Don’t even think about using garlic powder. Mince it finely so it doesn’t burn in the pan.
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! If you’re not a fan of spices, you can leave these out.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! What is the flavor of shrimp?
What is the Alfredo sauce?
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Real butter is essential for a rich, flavorful sauce. Don’t substitute margarine for butter.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream is what gives the Alfredo sauce its signature creaminess. Can you try using half and half for a lighter version, but it will not be quite as decadent.
What is the best way to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese? Don’t use the pre-grated stuff in the can. Does it melt as well?
What’s your favorite way to use ground nutmeg in a sauce? It’s not essential, but I highly recommend it.
Season generously!
For the Pasta:
• 1 pound fettuccine pasta: Alfredo Sauce: Fettuccine is the classic choice, but you can use any pasta you like. What are some good recipes for penne, linguine, or spaghetti?
Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! It season the pasta from the inside out.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. What is the best way to drain pasta water? How do you adjust the consistency of a sauce? I always set a timer so I don’t overcook it. Nobody likes mushy pasta!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside. How do you burn garlic? Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Once melted, whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The key here is low and slow – don’t crank up the heat or the sauce might separate.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning if needed. What are some good Parmesan recipes to try?
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (if desired). I like to serve mine in warm bowls, it just feels extra cozy that way.
What is the best way to serve it?
What is a complete meal on its own? What are some good ideas?
For a light lunch:What is a salad with lemon vinaigrette? The acidity of the dressing cuts through the creaminess and adds a refreshing element. I sometimes add toasted pine nuts to the salad for extra crunch.
What is the best way to prepare for a dinnerServe with crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. What are some good side dishes to serve with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli? I often add a glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to make the meal feel more special.
For a Cozy Night In:Honestly, sometimes I just eat this straight from the bowl with a spoon. No judgement, right? Is garlic bread a healthy side dish?
I always feel like a simple side of steamed Green Beans goes so well here and adds some color. What is the best way to serve pasta while it’s cooking?
How do I make shrimp Alfredo?
What are some extra tips to take your shrimp alfredo? How do I take a recipe to the next level?
Don’t overcook the shrimp: don’What are some of the biggest mistakes people make when cooking shrimp? Cook them until they’re pink and opaque. They should still be slightly tender. Remember they will continue to cook slightly when you add them back to the sauce.
How do you use fresh parmesan cheese?I can’t stress this enough! Does the pre-grated stuff in the can just not melt as well and it doesn’t have the same flavor? Is it worth the effort to grate yourself?
Don’t boil Alfredo sauce.If you boil Alfredo sauce, it will separate and become grainy. Keep the heat low and simmer gently.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: The consistency of the If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add some veggies to your Shrimp Alfredo. Broccoli, peas, spinach, or mushrooms would all be delicious.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy shrimp seasoning.
I once tried using skim milk instead of heavy cream to lighten up the sauce, and it was a disaster! The sauce was thin and watery and didn’t have that rich, creamy flavor. Lesson learned: stick with the heavy cream for the best results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s How to store and reheat them.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little milk or cream when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the Shrimp Alfredo in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing Shrimp Alfredo, as the sauce may separate and become grainy when thawed. The shrimp can also become rubbery.
I find that the Alfredo sauce is always best when freshly made, but if you really want to make it ahead of time, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to reheat it gently and add a little milk or cream to restore its creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to **shrimp alfredo recipe** that’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I truly believe anyone can make this and feel like a kitchen rockstar. The creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked shrimp, the comforting pasta – it’s just a magical combination. If you’re looking for more quick and easy pasta dishes, check out my recipes for cacio e pepe or pesto pasta. They’re just as simple and satisfying. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think, and if you try any fun variations! And if you loved it, please rate the recipe! Sharing is caring, so spread the love and tell your friends about this amazing dish.
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined Use large or jumbo shrimp
- 1 lb Fettuccine Pasta Fresh or dried
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated
- 0.25 cup Butter Unsalted
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.25 tsp Salt To taste
- 0.25 tsp Black Pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
- Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
Featured Comments
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