Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – Creamy, Flavorful & Easy Recipe

Introduction

Few dishes can match the creamy indulgence and irresistible flavors of Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta. This restaurant-quality meal combines succulent shrimp, a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special occasions.

Whether you’re a fan of seafood pasta or simply craving a dish that’s bursting with garlicky, cheesy goodness, this Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta will become a staple in your recipe collection. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, share expert cooking tips, and offer customization ideas to make this dish truly your own. Plus, we’ll answer common FAQs and provide nutritional insights to help you enjoy this creamy pasta guilt-free.

Let’s dive into the delicious world of Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta and create a dish that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

• Luxuriously Creamy: The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich, smooth, and coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
• Garlicky and Savory: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a deep, mouthwatering flavor.
• Protein-Packed: Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in calories but high in nutrients.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap out pasta, adjust the seasoning, or add veggies for a personalized twist.

Now, let’s gather the ingredients and get started!

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
2. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce later.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

5. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
6. Add the shrimp, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
8. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

9. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
10. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
11. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
12. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
13. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

14. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
15. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
16. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

17. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper.
18. Serve immediately and enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta!

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

• Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives the sauce a creamier texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery; keep an eye on them while cooking.
• Reserve pasta water: It helps in thinning out the sauce while keeping it rich and smooth.
• Customize your dish: Add spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Use high-quality butter: A good-quality butter makes a difference in both the shrimp and Alfredo sauce.

FAQs About Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in cold water for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

2. Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools. When reheating, add a splash of milk or pasta water to bring back its creamy texture.

3. Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version.

4. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine is the classic choice, but you can also use linguine, spaghetti, or even penne.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a plate of Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta to satisfy your cravings for something creamy, garlicky, and indulgent. This quick and easy recipe combines the best elements of rich Alfredo sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it to impress guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So why wait? Grab your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and enjoy a bowl of homemade Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen!

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