Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals
I absolutely love making this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, as it combines rich flavors with a creamy sauce that's simply irresistible. The plump shrimp cooked to perfection, paired with a smooth, cheesy alfredo sauce, truly elevates this dish. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want to impress guests or when I'm simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta. It's quick to prepare, and the results always deliver a satisfying meal that warms the heart and delights the taste buds.
When I first made this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors developed. The key is to sauté the shrimp until they are just pink but not overcooked, which keeps them tender and flavorful. I also discovered that adding a dash of nutmeg gives the sauce a subtle warmth that makes it more complex and satisfying.
Cooking the fettuccine to al dente is crucial for achieving the best texture in this dish. It allows the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. I like to toss it directly in the sauce right after draining, ensuring every strand is coated with the deliciousness of the alfredo.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Silky, creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
- Plump shrimp that provide a sweet ocean flavor
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Ingredients
Start by gathering these simple ingredients for a delectable meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta.
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic, sautéing until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, mixing until smooth and heated through.
Combine
Add the drained fettuccine directly into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your creamy shrimp alfredo pasta!
Enjoy your meal and share it with family and friends!
Pro Tips
- For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after cooking the shrimp.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
→ How can I make this dish lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
→ Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes! Broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would complement this dish nicely.
→ What sides pair well with this pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread works wonderfully as a side for this dish.
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
I absolutely love making this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta, as it combines rich flavors with a creamy sauce that's simply irresistible. The plump shrimp cooked to perfection, paired with a smooth, cheesy alfredo sauce, truly elevates this dish. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want to impress guests or when I'm simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta. It's quick to prepare, and the results always deliver a satisfying meal that warms the heart and delights the taste buds.
Created by: Rebecca Mills
Recipe Type: Balanced Wellness Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic, sautéing until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, mixing until smooth and heated through.
Add the drained fettuccine directly into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your creamy shrimp alfredo pasta!
Extra Tips
- For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after cooking the shrimp.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g