Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

This recipe creates a delicious and decadent shrimp alfredo pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 lb fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/3 cup dry white wine (chardonnay recommended)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Don’t rinse the pasta.

2. Prepare the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Heat olive oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan used for the shrimp, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

4. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

5. Create the sauce: Add the heavy whipping cream and parmesan cheese to the pan. Whisk together until the cheese is melted and a smooth sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

7. Garnish and serve: Plate the creamy shrimp alfredo pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them or they will become rubbery.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream will make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky smooth sauce when added a little at a time.
• Leftovers: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to thin out the sauce.