Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delectable Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta. The rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce clings to tender fettuccine, while perfectly sautéed shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist. This dish is simple yet elegant, ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions.
IngredientsFor the Pasta and Shrimp
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Fettuccine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with black pepper, salt, and nutmeg, if using.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce—pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Veggies: For a more filling dish, toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
- Zesty Twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.
This Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta with Homemade Alfredo Sauce is the definition of indulgence! With its rich sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table.