When you think of comfort food, one dish that often comes to mind is Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. This creamy, decadent pasta dish combines rich flavors and textures, making it a favorite among seafood and pasta lovers alike. Fettuccine, with its wide, flat shape, perfectly cradles the silky Alfredo sauce and succulent shrimp, creating a meal that is satisfying and indulgent.
Why We Love This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
The beauty of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo lies in its simplicity and flavor. You can whip it up using just a handful of ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner plans. The creamy sauce clings effortlessly to the pasta, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, adding shrimp elevates the dish by providing a fresh seafood component that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base. What’s more, creating this dish doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
Moreover, the versatility of this dish allows you to modify it according to your preferences. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, add vegetables, or even indulge in different cheese varieties. The choices are endless! Best of all, you can enjoy this indulgent meal in the comfort of your own home without having to dine out.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
To make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 10 ounces fettuccine
- 8 wedges Laughing Cow Cream Cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, preferably small
- A handful of parsley, chopped (optional)
Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in creating that rich and creamy texture that defines a classic Alfredo sauce, along with the tender, juicy shrimp that complete the dish.
How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Making Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is straightforward and quick, perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Begin by cooking the fettuccine according to the package directions. This usually involves boiling water and cooking the pasta until it is al dente. When finished, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
In a microwave-safe bowl, place the wedges of Laughing Cow Cream Cheese. Microwave them for about 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until the cheese is fully melted. This will form the base of your creamy sauce.
Once the cream cheese is melted, add the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and chicken or vegetable broth. Mix everything together until it is well combined and smooth. Set this creamy mixture aside for now.
Then, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fresh shrimp, cooking them for about three minutes until they are nearly cooked through. This will give your shrimp a lovely sear and flavor.
Next, pour the creamy sauce you prepared into the skillet with the shrimp. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to heat through for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it well to coat all the pasta with the creamy sauce and shrimp. If desired, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch.
Your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is now ready to serve! The end result will be a delightful blend of flavors that you won’t be able to resist.
How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Serving Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo can be a delightful experience, as presentation plays a big part in how appetizing your dish looks! You might want to serve it in shallow bowls to give it an elegant feel. Sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top, if you like, and add a touch of pepper for a bit of heat.
Pair your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread could also be a great addition, letting you soak up any remaining creamy sauce. For an even more elevated experience, consider serving it with a refreshing drink, like lemonade or sparkling water.
Expert Tips: Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
For a truly successful Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, consider the following tips:
Quality of Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is the best choice for this dish. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly sweet scent. If you buy frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Cooking the Pasta: Make sure not to overcook your fettuccine. It should be al dente, allowing it to hold up when tossed with the sauce.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much after cooking, you can thin it out by adding a little more broth or even some pasta water, as it has starch that can help in adjusting the sauce’s richness and creaminess.
Add Flavor: Experiment with additional garlic, a hint of lemon juice for brightness, or even some crushed red pepper if you prefer a spicy kick in your Alfredo.
How to Store Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often unlikely with such a delicious dish), it’s essential to store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about 3 to 4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a little broth or cream to regain that creamy texture.
Variations of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
One of the great things about Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe according to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider tossing in some vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or spinach for added nutrition and color. You can sauté these in the same skillet as the shrimp.
Different Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your preference, or if you want to mix it up, you could substitute chicken or scallops. Both options will work beautifully in this creamy dish.
Vegan Alternative: For a vegan version, you can swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. Use vegetable broth and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or chives for a different flavor profile that complements the richness of the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
What makes Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo creamy?
The creaminess of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo comes from the combination of the melted Laughing Cow Cream Cheese and Parmesan cheese. This mixture creates the rich sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp wonderfully.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp are perfectly acceptable and can be very convenient. Just remember to thaw them properly before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their texture.
Is Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo a difficult recipe to follow?
Not at all! This dish is straightforward and can be prepared quickly, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.
How spicy is Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo?
The original recipe is not spicy, but you can adjust the flavor by adding red pepper flakes or using garlic in a more robust fashion if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Can I make Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo in advance?
You can prepare the components ahead of time, but the dish is best enjoyed fresh. If you do make it in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stove.
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Microwave-Safe Bowl
Ingredients
- 10 oz fettuccine
- 8 wedges Laughing Cow Cream Cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 lb fresh shrimp preferably small
- 1 handful parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the Laughing Cow Cream Cheese in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and chicken or vegetable broth to the melted cream cheese. Mix until smooth.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil and cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes until nearly cooked through.
- Pour the creamy sauce into the skillet with the shrimp and stir to combine, heating for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat all the pasta with the sauce and shrimp.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
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