Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

If there’s one dish that never fails to impress, it’s a bowl of creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta. This indulgent meal marries succulent shrimp with a velvety sauce that clings to each strand of fettuccini, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta is an absolute winner.

Why It’s My Go-To

There’s something about creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta that makes it feel special yet approachable. It combines rich flavors with simple ingredients, making it a favorite in my household. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even a date night at home. Each bite is a delightful experience that transports you to an Italian trattoria.

What Goes In

To create this luscious creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 16 ounces fettuccini noodles
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Toolbox for This Recipe

To whip up this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta, you’ll need a few handy tools:

• Large pot: For boiling the fettuccini noodles.
• Skillet: To cook the shrimp and prepare the sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

Directions: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccini

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccini noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese, whisking until the cream cheese is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Continue to whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the grated parmesan cheese into the sauce, mixing until it melts and combines well. Add the cooked fettuccini noodles and sautéed shrimp into the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal!

Dietary Customizations

If you’re looking to customize this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta, here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-free: Substitute the fettuccini noodles with gluten-free pasta.
• Low-carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of fettuccini.
• Vegetarian: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms.
• Lightened-up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.

Learn from These Mistakes

Creating the perfect creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta can be straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be vigilant! Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and unpleasant.
• Not salting the pasta water: Salting the water enhances the flavor of the pasta and is a crucial step.
• Using low-quality cheese: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated varieties.
• Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps deepen the flavors, so take your time!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta fresh, consider these tips:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. The pasta may become mushy when thawed.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with the pasta.

What can I serve with this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or some garlic bread. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors wonderfully.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if desired.

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Before You Go

This creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy deliciousness. You deserve it! Enjoy every creamy bite of your homemade shrimp Alfredo pasta masterpiece.