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Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Tender shrimp and silky fettuccine pasta enveloped in a rich, homemade garlic Alfredo sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined (21-25 count)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.25 cup butter unsalted preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 to 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Grater for Parmesan cheese
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  2. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook 2-3 minutes per side until bright pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and gradually add Parmesan cheese in ¼ cup increments, stirring constantly after each addition until cheese melts completely. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time.
  5. Return cooked shrimp and drained fettuccine to the skillet. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until pasta is well-coated and heated through.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for smoothest sauce. Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking for best sear. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add Parmesan gradually while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Don't overcook shrimp or they become rubbery. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with splash of cream.