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Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Pasta with Garlic

Close-up of a white plate holding a generous serving of Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Pasta with Garlic, topped with parmesan and pepper.

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Follow this recipe to make rich, restaurant-style Alfredo pasta featuring tender shrimp and a strong garlic flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound fettuccine pasta
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
  2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant; do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Let it warm through for 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using.
  6. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp and the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • To prevent the sauce from separating, keep the heat low when adding the cheese and avoid boiling the sauce after the cheese is incorporated.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the butter with reserved shrimp cooking liquid after sautéing the shrimp.

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