Classic Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, luxurious dish that brings the flavors of the sea to your dining table. With its luscious sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a meal that feels like an indulgence but is surprisingly simple to make at home. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive date night.
The star of our dish is, of course, the shrimp. It adds a delicate, sweet seafood flavor that's perfectly matched by the creamy Alfredo sauce. The fettuccine pasta acts as the perfect vehicle for our sauce, with its broad shape holding onto the creamy Alfredo beautifully. Unsalted butter and olive oil are used to sauté the shrimp and create a base for our sauce, allowing us to control the saltiness. The garlic introduces a warm, aromatic depth to the dish, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese combine to create that classic, velvety Alfredo texture. A sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a burst of color and freshness, tying all the flavors together.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Alfredo. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce. For a touch of acidity, a wedge of lemon on the side can be squeezed over the shrimp just before serving.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. You want it al dente, so it holds up well in the sauce. Once done, drain it and set it aside. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once they're ready, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it's melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, letting it cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally. Now, incorporate the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it's melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
Return the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them with the sauce until everything is well coated. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
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