This creamy Alfredo shrimp pasta is a dream come true for pasta lovers! It’s made with tender shrimp, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. So comforting!
You can whip this up in no time, and trust me, the smell will have everyone running to the table! 🍤 I love to add a sprinkle of parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta is perfect for holding onto creamy sauces. If you don’t have fettuccine, tagliatelle or linguine work well too. For a lower-carb option, you can also use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even cooked shrimp if you’re in a hurry. If you’re not a seafood fan, chicken breast would also be a great substitute.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for lighter alternatives, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream, but it may not be as thick. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a bind, you can use pre-grated Parmesan, but fresh is always better. Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute that adds a different twist!
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
Getting that creamy sauce just right can be tricky. Here are some key steps to help you succeed:
- Always start with a medium heat. Too high can cause the cream to separate.
- Stir constantly as you add the cream and milk. This prevents curdling and keeps the sauce smooth.
- Let the sauce gently simmer, not boil. This will thicken it nicely without drying out the ingredients.
- Whisk in the cheese gradually. This helps achieve a smooth consistency. Don’t rush this step!
Following these tips will help you create a deliciously creamy Alfredo sauce every time!
How to Make Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Pasta takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the shrimp, and making the creamy sauce. Quick and delightful for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means it will still have a bite to it). When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water in case your sauce needs thinning later!
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, get your skillet ready. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and fully cooked, about 2 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until you can smell that delicious aroma. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens a little.
4. Add Cheese & Seasoning:
Now, it’s time to make it cheesy! Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning (or dried parsley) until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more salt and pepper to taste if you like. If the sauce seems too thick, just add a splash of reserved pasta water!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so that the pasta and shrimp are well-coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through and nicely combined.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your creamy Alfredo shrimp pasta onto plates, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. If you love a zesty kick, add a few lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use other pasta types like linguine, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with a mixture of half-and-half or even just use whole milk. The sauce will be lighter but still delicious. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic. You could also toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spicy sausage for extra flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
