Indulge in the creamy delights: try this irresistible alfredo pasta with shrimp recipe for a night to remember
What To Know
- This dish marries the velvety smoothness of Alfredo sauce with the succulent sweetness of succulent shrimp, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
- The acidity of the wine will balance the richness of the sauce and enhance the flavors of the shrimp.
Indulge in the tantalizing symphony of flavors with our exquisite alfredo pasta with shrimp recipe. This dish marries the velvety smoothness of Alfredo sauce with the succulent sweetness of succulent shrimp, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt the butter in the same skillet used for the shrimp.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
4. Combine the Sauce and Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the alfredo sauce and stir to combine.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved cooking water to thin it out.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the pasta with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
- Enjoy this creamy and flavorful alfredo pasta with shrimp extravaganza!
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or fontina, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add Herbs: Infuse the dish with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added aromatic depth.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to give it a subtle kick.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Cook the shrimp just until cooked through to prevent overcooking and rubberiness.
- Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will become mushy.
- If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of this alfredo pasta with shrimp contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
The Perfect Pairing:
Complement this delectable dish with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine will balance the richness of the sauce and enhance the flavors of the shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What type of pasta is best for this dish?
- Long, flat noodles like fettuccine or pappardelle work well because they can hold the sauce better.
3. How do I make the sauce thicker?
- If you want a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the heavy cream before heating it.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp.
5. How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.