This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is creamy and dreamy! It’s made with tender shrimp, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, there’s something magical about pasta swimming in a velvety sauce. I can’t help but twirl my fork and smile each time I dig in. Who else is with me on this? 😄
This dish is a go-to for a quick dinner. Just sauté the shrimp, mix in the sauce, and toss with pasta. Easy as pie—well, maybe easier! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This flat, wide pasta is perfect for Alfredo sauce. If you can’t find it, try linguine or spaghetti. They work well too! My personal favorite is using fresh pasta when I can, as it cooks quickly and adds a lovely texture.
Shrimp: I prefer using large, fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp works just fine. Make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. If you’re looking for a substitute, grilled chicken or even tofu can work for a different twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch and color. For a different veggie option, you could use asparagus, peas, or spinach. I love adding spinach for an extra nutrient boost!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or a mixture of yogurt and milk can be used. Just keep in mind that the texture will be lighter.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan always gives the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is an excellent alternative. Just be cautious—it’s saltier, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce is Smooth and Creamy?
Creating a smooth Alfredo sauce is key to a successful dish. To achieve this, keep these steps in mind:
- After adding the cream to the skillet, reduce the heat to low. This prevents the cream from boiling, which helps it combine well.
- While stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese, do it gradually. This method ensures that it melts evenly and doesn’t clump.
- If at any point your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water. It helps bring everything together smoothly!
Remember, the consistency should be creamy but not too runny. Take your time during this part for the best results!
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and broccoli, followed by 20 minutes preparing the creamy sauce and shrimp. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. When there are just 2 minutes left on the cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets. Once everything is cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, then set them aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
4. Creating the Alfredo Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape any tasty bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds tons of flavor! Now, start adding the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Combining Everything:
Gently toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet. Make sure to mix everything well so that the pasta and broccoli are coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. This is where the magic happens!
6. Final Touches:
Give your pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want it a little saltier or spicier, feel free to add more salt or crushed red pepper flakes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta immediately on plates or in bowls. For a fancy touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, other pasta types like linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta can work great. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose, following the package instructions!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a mixture of milk and butter. For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream alternative for a similar texture. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.
How to Properly Store Leftover Shrimp Alfredo Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Be careful not to overheat, as shrimp can become rubbery!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers make great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the shrimp to ensure everything is cooked perfectly and infused with flavor.
