Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe – A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

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Welcome, food lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a classic and comforting dish that brings creamy, savory flavors together in perfect harmony: Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. This delicious meal combines rich, creamy sauce with tender, flavorful shrimp, creating a satisfying experience that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

Introduction

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo has its origins in Italian cuisine, with roots tracing back to Alfredo di Lelio’s famous pasta dish. This version adds a unique twist by incorporating shrimp, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of protein. Imagine a creamy, garlicky sauce clinging to each strand of fettuccine, topped with plump, juicy shrimp – it’s hard to resist! Plus, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of lemon juice, every bite feels balanced and delicious.

Ingredients

To prepare this comforting recipe, you’ll need:

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

These ingredients work in harmony to create a rich and flavorful dish. If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the cream with a dairy-free option or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Follow these steps to create your own delicious Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo:

  1. Cook the Fettuccine: Boil the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, following the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to taste. This enhances the flavor and gives a balanced taste to each shrimp.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  4. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds.
  5. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, add heavy cream, and stir until it thickens slightly.
  6. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked fettuccine and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
  7. Mix in Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
  8. Serve: Plate the pasta with a lemon wedge on the side for a burst of fresh flavor before eating.

Helpful Tips

For the perfect Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, ensure your shrimp are large and fresh. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a splash of pasta water if needed. Also, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the dish’s texture and taste.

Cooking Tips

  1. Sauce Consistency: If the Alfredo sauce feels too thick, add a small amount of pasta water to loosen it up.
  2. Shrimp Selection: Large shrimp hold up well in this dish and are easier to work with. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so be mindful of the timing.
  3. Equipment: Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the cream from sticking, making it easier to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy richness of this dish beautifully. For an elegant presentation, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top before serving.

Nutritional Information

This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it a satisfying meal. Nutritional details below are per serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 640
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Potassium: 350mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 25% DV
  • Vitamin C: 10% DV
  • Calcium: 30% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV

This dish offers a generous amount of protein from the shrimp and is rich in calcium thanks to the Parmesan cheese, beneficial for bone health.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. This will prevent the sauce from separating and help maintain a creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?\
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Simply add them to the sauce in the final step and heat until warm.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?\
Yes, half-and-half can substitute heavy cream, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. Add a bit more Parmesan to help thicken it.

3. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?\
Absolutely. Swap out heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut or almond milk, and use dairy-free Parmesan for a similar effect.

For more inspiration, you might enjoy these related dishes:

Each of these recipes brings its own unique flavor profile to the table, adding to your collection of comforting pasta dishes.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo as much as I do. Feel free to experiment with ingredients or add your twist to the recipe! Don’t forget to share your version in the comments, and let me know how it turns out. Enjoy your cooking journey, and bon appétit!

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