Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp (Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta)
Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp is a rich, creamy pasta dish that combines silky Alfredo sauce with juicy, flavorful shrimp. This recipe is a seafood twist on the classic Alfredo, bringing together buttery garlic flavors, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked shrimp for a restaurant-style meal at home.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—creamy yet not too heavy, simple yet indulgent. The shrimp adds a light, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or something special for guests, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
250 grams shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta:
250 grams fettuccine
Water and salt for boiling
For Alfredo Sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt (as needed)
Optional:
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Chili flakes (for slight heat)
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the fettuccine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Alfredo Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Add shrimp and mix gently. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with parsley and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Chef’s Note
The key to this dish is timing. Shrimp cooks very quickly, so avoid overcooking it to keep it tender and juicy.
Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smooth sauce—pre-packaged cheese may not melt properly. Also, cooking the sauce on low heat helps maintain its creamy texture without splitting.
For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to balance the richness.
Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 600–700 kcal
Protein: 30–35 grams
Carbohydrates: 45–50 grams
Fat: 35–40 grams
Calcium: 20–25% of daily value
Note: Values may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
- Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. You can add a little butter and flour to thicken it.
- Which pasta works best?
Fettuccine is ideal because its flat shape holds the creamy sauce well.
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
- How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a little milk or water.
- Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp is a perfect combination of creamy, garlicky, and savory flavors. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and brings a touch of restaurant-style elegance right to your dining table.
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