Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and luxurious pasta dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or an indulgent treat. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine makes this dish a favorite among pasta lovers. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
- 1 lb. fettuccine: The classic pasta choice for Alfredo, providing the perfect surface to hold the creamy sauce.
- 3 Tbsp. butter, divided: Adds richness and flavor to both the shrimp and the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed: Tender, juicy shrimp that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a savory, aromatic base for the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The main ingredient for a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess while lightening the sauce slightly.
- 1 egg yolk: Adds richness and helps to thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herby note and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Instructions: How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Create the Roux:
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly.
- Add the Cream and Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the Egg Yolk:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the warm sauce to the egg yolk, whisking constantly to temper it. Then, slowly whisk the tempered egg yolk back into the skillet, ensuring it’s well incorporated.
- Add the Parmesan:
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it’s thickened and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo to serving plates. Garnish with more freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, decadent dish!
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Shrimp: For the best texture, be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be just pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese can be coated with anti-caking agents, which may prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
- Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
- Make-Ahead: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before tossing with the pasta and shrimp.
Variations of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Here are some ways to customize your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo:
- Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo: Replace the shrimp with grilled or sautéed chicken breast slices.
- Vegetable Alfredo: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cajun Shrimp Alfredo: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning before cooking for a spicy twist.
- Seafood Alfredo: Mix in other seafood like scallops or crab meat for a luxurious, seafood-rich dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce. The sauce may be slightly less rich and thick, but it will still be delicious.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply warm them in the sauce at the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
4. What can I serve with Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free fettuccine and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
A Rich and Satisfying Pasta Dish
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic, indulgent dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal at home. The combination of tender shrimp, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine creates a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. With this recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this creamy, decadent pasta dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
