Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, adds depth)
1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta, if needed to thin sauce)
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine (or linguine, spaghetti, or pasta of your choice)
Salt (for pasta water)

Garnishes (Optional):

Chopped fresh parsley
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon zest for brightness

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until shrimp are opaque and slightly golden. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Seasoning

Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. If the sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated in the sauce and the shrimp are evenly distributed. Heat for an additional minute to combine flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer to serving bowls or a large platter. Top with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and lemon zest if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Lunch
Cuisine: Americans

Nutrition

Calories: 680
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 740mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g

Keywords: Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe