Description
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender, juicy shrimp, this dish feels like a restaurant-quality meal—but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home! Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or a family feast, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for extra flavor)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved from boiling the pasta)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp – They cook quickly; remove them once they turn pink.
- Adjust Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Make it Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American