Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Classic Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails off)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of cayenne (for a little kick 🔥 – optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (use the good stuff! 🧀)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine
- Salt (for boiling water)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Garnish (optional but fabulous):
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan
- Cracked black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine al dente according to the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using).
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly curled. Don’t overcook—unless you’re craving shrimp rubber bands. 😅
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those flavor bits are gold! ✨), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it!).
Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, reducing slightly.
Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Gently stir in the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together for another 1–2 minutes so it’s well mixed and heated through.
5. Garnish & Serve
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper. Maybe even a glass of white wine if you’re feeling classy. 🍷😉
🔥 Chef’s Tip:
If you’re short on time, you can prep your shrimp the night before and store them in the fridge. Just remember to label them or risk a late-night snack bandit stealing your ingredients. 😂
🧐 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly first—place them in cold water for 15–20 minutes. Don’t microwave them or toss them in hot water unless you’re auditioning for “How to Ruin Shrimp in 10 Seconds.” 😅
Q2: What’s the best cheese for Alfredo sauce?
A: Parmesan, always! But make it freshly grated, not the pre-shredded stuff or the kind that comes in a shaky green can (you know the one). That powdery stuff just won’t melt right.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Sort of. You can prep the components (cook the pasta, sauté the shrimp, make the sauce) and keep them separate. But for the best creamy texture and shrimp tenderness, assemble it fresh before serving. Leftovers are okay, but reheating Alfredo is tricky—it tends to thicken and the shrimp can get tough. 🥴
Q4: What if I want it lighter? Can I skip the heavy cream?
A: You can try using half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream, but keep in mind: you’re making Alfredo, not a salad. 😆 The richness is kind of the point. If you really want it lighter, reduce portion sizes and serve with a salad on the side (balanced diet, boom! 🥗).
Q5: Can I substitute the shrimp with something else?
A: Absolutely! Chicken is a popular swap. You can also go meatless and just make it a classic fettuccine Alfredo. Or go wild and add mushrooms or broccoli—your kitchen, your rules. 🧑🍳
🍽️ Conclusion:
And there you have it—your complete, flavor-packed, foolproof Shrimp Alfredo Recipe plus 7 irresistible tips to take it from “meh” to mouthwatering. Whether you’re impressing your date, feeding the family, or just treating yourself (as you should), this dish delivers every single time.
So go ahead—grab that skillet, swirl that pasta, and serve up a plate of creamy joy. Just be warned: once people taste it, you might get stuck being the official Alfredo maker at every family gathering. 😉
Now go forth and Alfredo with confidence! 🍤🍝💪
And remember: life is too short for bland pasta.