Introduction

Shrimp Scampi Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines the rich and creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with succulent shrimp and al dente pasta. This recipe provides an easy way to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a harmonious blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, making it both satisfying and comforting.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pasta: 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine
Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, minced
Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Parsley: 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Red Pepper Flakes: optional, for added heat

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Shrimp Scampi Alfredo, ideal for a cozy dinner or special celebration.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, until reduced slightly. Stir in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Add Cheese and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Serve

Serve the shrimp scampi Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Fresh Shrimp vs. Frozen

Fresh shrimp is recommended for optimal flavor, but you can use frozen shrimp if necessary. Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.

Wine Replacement

If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can replace white wine with chicken broth or a mix of lemon juice and water.

Cheese Options

For a different flavor profile, consider using Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan, or a combination of both.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to enhance the dining experience.

Cook techniques

Cooking shrimp

When cooking shrimp, ensure they are deveined and peeled. Sauté them on medium-high heat until they turn pink, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. This helps maintain their tenderness.

Making Alfredo sauce

To create a creamy Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a saucepan and add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently and incorporate grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. This technique ensures a rich and flavorful sauce.

Combining ingredients

When combining shrimp with the Alfredo sauce, make sure to do so off the heat. This prevents overcooking the shrimp and allows the flavors to meld together without losing their freshness.

Serving tips

Serve shrimp scampi Alfredo over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon can enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best with shrimp scampi Alfredo?

Fettuccine or linguine are great options for serving with shrimp scampi Alfredo, as they hold the sauce well.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently before adding the shrimp, taking care not to overheat and cause separation.

What can I do if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water or more cream to reach your desired consistency.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for best quality.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Alfredo is a delightful dish that elegantly combines the rich and creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with the succulent taste of shrimp. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a luxurious dining experience that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

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