Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta
A delightful and creamy pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked fettuccine, enveloping your taste buds in a rich and comforting sauce.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 8 oz fettuccine Fresh if possible, for that authentic touch.
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) Opt for large shrimp for a satisfying bite.
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh is always best—feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!
- 1 cup heavy cream For that luscious, creamy sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese The heart of flavor—don’t skimp on quality!
- Salt and pepper To taste, bringing out the flavors of your dish.
- Fresh parsley Chopped, for a pop of color and freshness at the end.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the remaining oil and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken for about 3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into a rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
Finishing Touches
- Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the fettuccine is coated in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Get creative with your Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta! Consider adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a fresh twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes will elevate the dish with a warm heat. A squeeze of lemon juice or zest can brighten the flavor profile remarkably.