Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Introduction

When I first prepared Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, I was excited to see how my family would react to this classic dish with a seafood twist. To my delight, it quickly became a favorite! The creamy sauce paired with tender shrimp and fresh pasta was a culinary hit. Not only was it easy to make, but the vibrant flavors left everyone asking for seconds. This dish is now a go-to for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-25 pieces)
• 300 grams fresh fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (from an 8 oz package)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1/3 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped (optional for the bake)
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon salt flakes (to taste)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add the pasta and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 3 minutes for fresh fettuccine). Drain and do not rinse.
2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp, stirring frequently until they turn orange (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add Aromatics: Add minced garlic, chopped onions, and parsley. Stir until the onions are soft and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Make the Sauce: Incorporate melted butter, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream into the skillet. Stir until smooth and cook for 2 minutes. Mix in Parmesan cheese and ground black pepper, stirring for another minute as the sauce thickens.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Turn off the heat and leave the sauce in the skillet. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss to combine thoroughly. Season with salt flakes to taste.
6. Optional Bake: For a pasta bake, sprinkle chopped mozzarella over the fettuccine. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 423

Preparation Time

• Total Preparation Time: 22 minutes (10 minutes prep, 12 minutes cooking)

How to Serve

• Serve hot directly from the skillet.
• Garnish with extra parsley for color.
• Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Offer extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
• Consider a light white wine to complement the dish.

Additional Tips

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add additional spices like red pepper flakes for a kick.
3. Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
4. Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
5. Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Shrimp Alfredo: Add lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Increase garlic for a stronger flavor.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful combination.
• Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
• Accompany with a light soup as an appetizer.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   • Yes, just thaw them before cooking.
2. What pasta works best?
   • Fresh fettuccine is ideal, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish in advance?
   • It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with cooked pasta before serving.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
5. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
   • You can use mascarpone or ricotta for a similar texture.
6. How can I make it dairy-free?
   • Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based heavy cream substitute.
7. Can I add vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Spinach, asparagus, or peas are great additions.
8. How spicy is this dish?
   • It’s not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to adjust the heat.
9. What if I don’t have a broiler?
   • Just serve it without baking; it will still be delicious!
10. How long does it take to make?
    • It takes about 22 minutes total from start to finish.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a quick and delightful dish that brings the flavors of the sea to your dinner table. With its creamy sauce and tender shrimp, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you choose to serve it fresh or as a baked version, this recipe offers flexibility and deliciousness in every bite. Give it a try, and you might just find a new family favorite!

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