Ingredients
Shrimp & Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked (31-40/pound size) shrimp (thawed & peeled, tails optional)
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened & cut into smaller pieces)
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 large cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the shrimp: If the shrimp are frozen, place them in a colander and run under cool water until fully thawed. Peel and de-vein if necessary, leaving tails on or off based on preference.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook al dente according to package directions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter, cream cheese pieces, heavy cream, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Stir frequently to help the cream cheese melt and blend into the liquid, creating a smooth sauce. This will take several minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Once the cream cheese is fully incorporated, allow the sauce to gently bubble for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage thickening. During this time, grate the parmesan cheese fresh if not already done.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Stir the freshly grated parmesan into the sauce and let it cook for about one minute until fully melted and combined.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally to cook evenly.
- Finish and serve: Season the Alfredo sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the skillet with the shrimp and sauce until well coated. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best eating experience; tails can be left on for presentation.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a less rich sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Do not overcook the shrimp as they become rubbery quickly.
- Reserve a small cup of pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce before tossing with pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American