Shrimp Alfredo

Looking for a creamy and flavorful Shrimp Alfredo recipe? This dish features tender shrimp, a rich Alfredo sauce made with Parmesan and Asiago cheeses, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines comfort and elegance. Optional crispy Panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch to this classic recipe. With a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this Shrimp Alfredo is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a special occasion or a busy weekday, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Crunchy Panko Topping (Optional)

• 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Shrimp Alfredo

• 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 lb. Fettuccine (see notes)
• 6 tablespoons salted butter (high quality)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups half-and-half (half cream/half milk)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Asiago cheese, grated

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly cracked pepper

For Serving

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep Work:
   • Thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry. Remove the shells, tails, and veins if necessary.
   • Measure out all ingredients before beginning.
2. Optional Crunchy Panko Topping:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and toast the Panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook Shrimp:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. (Use a timer to prevent overcooking). Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
4. Cook Pasta:
   • Boil fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Add the dried parsley, basil (if using), salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Gradually add half-and-half in small splashes, stirring continuously.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
   • Stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining the fettuccine.
   • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Add Shrimp and Finish:
   • Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with the pasta and sauce. Allow everything to heat through, about 1 minute.
8. Serve:
   • Optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for some heat, and garnish with fresh parsley and toasted panko.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tip: Save any leftover pasta water for reheating the dish, as it will help loosen the sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Rich and Creamy: The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with the delicate shrimp makes for a mouthwatering dish.
• Optional Crunch: A crispy Panko topping adds a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and ingredients to fit your taste preferences.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking it will result in a tough texture. Use a timer to ensure you get the perfect shrimp.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keeping some pasta water on hand helps adjust the sauce’s thickness and reheat leftovers.
• Use High-Quality Butter: For the richest flavor, opt for high-quality salted butter in both the sauce and the Panko topping.
• Toasting Panko: If you want that extra crispy topping, don’t skip toasting the Panko breadcrumbs in butter.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out Asiago for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free fettuccine and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this without the Panko topping?
Yes, the recipe is delicious even without the crunchy Panko topping. You can also use store-bought crispy breadcrumbs if you prefer.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?
To reduce the calories, substitute half-and-half with milk, and use less butter. You can also use a smaller amount of cheese.

4. Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a bit of pasta water to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a full meal.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for a balanced dinner.
• This shrimp Alfredo can be served as a standalone dish or with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.