Craving a decadent yet effortlessly prepared meal? Look no further than this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo recipe, a comforting classic elevated for a quick weeknight dinner. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly coating delicate pasta. This recipe delivers all the richness and flavor of a restaurant-quality dish, without the hefty price tag or hours spent in the kitchen. We use simple, readily available ingredients to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is designed for busy individuals who still appreciate delicious food. The rich, creamy sauce is surprisingly easy to whip up, and the shrimp cooks quickly, ensuring a complete meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Ready to dive into the delicious details? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Large pan
- Paper towels
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Fettuccine noodles: 3/4 pound
- Shrimp: 1 pound
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1/2 medium
- Garlic: 1 clove
- White wine (Chardonnay): 1/3 cup
- Cream: 2 cups
- Parmesan cheese: 1/3 cup
- Fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Cook Pasta
- Cook 3/4 pound of fettuccine noodles in salted water according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain but do not rinse.
Step 2. Sauté Shrimp and Vegetables
- Pat dry 1 pound of shrimp with paper towels. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove shrimp from pan.
- Chop 1/2 medium onion. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until soft and golden.
- Mince 1 garlic clove and add it to the pan, stirring for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Step 3. Create the Alfredo Sauce
- Add 1/3 cup of white wine (Chardonnay). Cook until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
- Add 2 cups of cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Do not boil.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Turn off the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp. Stir until the noodles are well coated.
- Serve and garnish with fresh parsley.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Don't overcook the shrimp!
- A little white wine adds a lot of flavor.
- Fresh parsley adds beautiful color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can try half-and-half or even a combination of milk and cream cheese. The sauce will be slightly less rich, but still delicious.
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo recipe proves that gourmet meals don't require hours of slaving over a hot stove. Enjoy this comforting pasta dish as a weeknight treat or a special occasion dinner – it’s sure to impress! So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and savor every bite of this delicious, easy-to-make pasta.