This One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect creamy, savory dish for a busy weeknight meal or a special occasion. The shrimp adds a burst of flavor to the rich Alfredo sauce, while the fettuccine cooks directly in the sauce for an easy, one-pan dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients for One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
1x Recipe:
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil (for cooking the shrimp)
- 8 oz. fettuccine noodles
- 2 Tbsp. butter, unsalted
- 2 tsp. minced garlic (for flavor)
- 2 cups chicken broth (for cooking the pasta)
- ½ cup whole milk (for creaminess)
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (for a rich Alfredo sauce)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best results)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions for One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
1. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
- In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutesuntil fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Broth, Milk, and Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy whipping cream. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the fettuccine noodles to the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the fettuccine is al dente and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little extra broth or milk to loosen it.
4. Add Parmesan and Season
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional) to taste.
5. Return the Shrimp
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan and gently toss them with the pasta and sauce. Let the shrimp warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped parsley for garnish. Serve the One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Pasta Tip: Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking and to ensure it cooks evenly in the sauce.
- Cheese: For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce.
- Shrimp: You can leave the tails on or remove them, depending on your preference. Leaving the tails on can add more flavor, while removing them makes the dish easier to eat.
Variations for One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
1. Vegetable Add-Ins
- Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus to the dish for extra nutrition. Sauté the vegetables in the same pan after cooking the shrimp, then remove and set aside until the pasta is done.
2. Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
- Swap the shrimp for chicken breast or thighs. Simply cook the chicken in the same way as the shrimp, and then proceed with the recipe as written.
3. Spicy Alfredo
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can sprinkle it over the pasta before serving or cook it with the garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use other pasta shapes like linguine, penne, or spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Creamy and Delicious in One Pan
This One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxurious Alfredo sauce, this one-pan meal is both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
