Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

Indulge in this easy and creamy Shrimp Alfredo recipe made with fettuccine, succulent shrimp, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a restaurant-quality meal at home. Learn tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate your pasta night!

Ingredients

Crunchy Panko Topping (Optional):

• 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Shrimp Alfredo:

• 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 lb. Fettuccine (see notes)
• 6 tablespoons salted butter (high quality)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups half and half (half cream/half milk)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Asiago cheese, grated

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly cracked pepper

For Serving:

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley to garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• Thaw the shrimp completely. Pat dry and remove the shell, tail, and veins if necessary.
• Measure out all ingredients before starting to cook.

1. Optional Crunchy Panko Topping:

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add Panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Toast for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

1. Cook Shrimp:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add shrimp and cook for about 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Avoid overcooking by using a timer. Remove shrimp from the skillet and transfer to a clean plate. (They will continue to cook slightly as they rest and when added back to the sauce.)

1. Cook Fettuccine:

• Boil fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

1. Prepare Alfredo Sauce:

• In the same skillet used for the shrimp, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Gradually add half and half in small splashes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
• Add dried parsley, dried basil (if using), salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer to thicken.

1. Add Cheese:

• Stir in Parmesan and Asiago cheeses. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Add drained fettuccine to the sauce and toss to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.

1. Finish with Shrimp:

• Add cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to combine and allow the shrimp to heat through, about 1 minute.

1. Serve:

• Optional: Squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon over the dish and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and crunchy Panko topping if using. Serve with remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tip: Save any leftover pasta water to help reheat and loosen the sauce for leftovers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and two cheeses creates an indulgently creamy sauce.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with your favorite seasonings or pasta.
• Restaurant-Quality: Enjoy a gourmet meal in the comfort of your home.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights, it comes together in less than 30 minutes.

Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they only need about 1 minute per side.
• Gradually add half and half to avoid curdling.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
• Warm the plates before serving to keep the dish hot longer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Substitute Asiago with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Protein: Swap shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or salmon.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk and vegan butter.
• Pasta: Try linguine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, but for best results, cook the shrimp and pasta fresh. The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently.

What if my sauce is too thick?

• Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

How can I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of pasta water.

Serving

• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Suggestions

• For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil before cooking.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added texture and nutrients.