Shrimp Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that is both creamy and indulgent. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for an easy and quick meal that is packed with flavor. The combination of juicy shrimp, al-dente pasta, and a rich and creamy sauce is simply irresistible. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 500g fettuccine pasta
- 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and is no longer translucent, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce until well coated.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option
To make this recipe vegetarian/vegan, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based heavy cream and vegan Parmesan cheese to make the sauce creamy.
Gluten-free Option
If you’re gluten intolerant or allergic, you can use gluten-free pasta in place of fettuccine pasta.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as it can become tough and rubbery.
- Use fresh garlic for more flavor.
- You can also add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to add some color and nutrition to the dish.
- Make sure to season the sauce well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- You can also add some red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
Shrimp Alfredo is a perfect meal for those who love seafood and pasta. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. You can also customize the dish according to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?
It is not recommended to substitute heavy cream with milk as it will result in a thinner and less creamy sauce. However, you can use half and half or light cream for a lighter version.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different type of pasta, but we recommend using a pasta with ridges or curves to hold the sauce better.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to this dish to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
It is not recommended to use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese as it may contain additives that affect the texture and taste of the sauce. It is best to shred the cheese yourself.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese such as Romano or Asiago, but make sure it is a hard and flavorful cheese that can be grated.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the pasta.
Can I freeze this dish?
It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream sauce may separate and become grainy when reheated.
Can I use a different type of seafood?
Yes, you can use different types of seafood like scallops or crab meat, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to make this dish spicy. Adjust the amount to your liking.
