Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta with Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Indulge in a Luxurious Seafood Pasta Experience
Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s as creamy as it is delightful? Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta with Homemade Alfredo Sauce is the answer. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a luscious, made-from-scratch Alfredo sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta, this dish is a luxurious choice that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Shrimp and Pasta:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 10 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Homemade Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce:
- Return the cooked and drained fettuccine pasta to the pot you cooked it in.
- Pour the homemade Alfredo sauce over the pasta and gently toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the pasta and gently fold them in.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the creamy shrimp fettuccine pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy Your Luxurious Meal:
- Serve your Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and indulgent dining experience.
Tips:
- To add a hint of freshness and acidity to the dish, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes. While fettuccine works beautifully, you can try linguine, spaghetti, or even penne for a twist on the classic.
Variations:
- Enhance the flavor profile with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
- If you prefer a protein alternative to shrimp, grilled chicken breast or tender scallops can be substituted.
Cook’s Note:
Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta with Homemade Alfredo Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that you can master in the comfort of your own kitchen. The velvety Alfredo sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and fettuccine creates a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress and satisfy every time. Buon appetito!