About This Recipe
Few dishes strike the balance between indulgence and simplicity as well as One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. This recipe delivers the creamy richness of a traditional Alfredo sauce, the tender bite of pasta, and the succulence of shrimp—all cooked together in one pan for ultimate convenience. Originating from Italian-American kitchens, fettuccine Alfredo has long been a favorite comfort food. By adding shrimp and keeping everything to a single skillet, you get a complete meal with less cleanup and maximum flavor.
This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something elegant but quick, or for a weekend meal when you are entertaining family and friends. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish that feels both luxurious and approachable.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional add-ins: sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes
Step by Step Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Build the sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add pasta to the sauce: Place the fettuccine directly into the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in the creamy liquid. Cover and cook over medium heat for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish the Alfredo: Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss with the pasta and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce.
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes to stay tender and juicy.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of extra chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
- For extra richness, finish with a pat of butter before serving.
What to Serve with Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides that balance the creaminess. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Steamed asparagus, roasted zucchini, or a medley of seasonal vegetables.
- A glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine is traditional, but linguine, spaghetti, or even penne can work in this recipe.
Can I make this without cream?
While heavy cream is ideal for the richness of Alfredo sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. Avoid using milk alone, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta, but check cooking times since they may vary.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes. Adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic enhances the flavor of the sauce. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding the cream.
You Must Know
The secret to a creamy Alfredo lies in timing. Adding the Parmesan too early can cause clumping, so wait until the pasta is nearly done and the sauce has slightly thickened before stirring in the cheese. Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce is also essential, as it allows the starch from the pasta to thicken the sauce naturally, creating the luscious consistency that Alfredo is known for. Finally, searing the shrimp separately ensures they remain juicy and do not overcook while the pasta finishes.
Storage Tips
- Store cooled leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat slowly over the stovetop with added cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate after thawing.
Conclusion
One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a dish that combines elegance and efficiency. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, the shrimp add a delicate sweetness, and the one-pan method makes preparation simple. It is the kind of recipe that can elevate an ordinary weeknight dinner or impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.