Welcome to Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo 15 Minutes Delight! If you crave a quick, tasty meal, you’re in the right place. In just 15 minutes, you can create a creamy, savory dish loaded with shrimp and rich Parmesan. Grab your apron and join me as we whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough for any night. Let’s dive right into the ingredients you need!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo, you need a few simple items. First, grab the fettuccine pasta. This type of pasta works best for soaking up the creamy sauce. Next, get large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp makes a big difference in taste.
Butter is the next ingredient. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your dish. You will need garlic, which adds a rich flavor. Mince four cloves for the best taste.
Heavy cream gives the sauce that creamy texture. You also need grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy kick. Salt and pepper will enhance the flavors, so add them to your liking. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
With these ingredients, you can create a delightful meal in just 15 minutes. Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking. This will help you stay organized and make the process smooth. Enjoy the journey of creating this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pasta
1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook the pasta until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
1. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and be fully cooked.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
1. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet with shrimp. Stir well to mix.
2. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Toss the cooked fettuccine pasta into the skillet. Make sure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and shrimp.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, watch for their color. They should turn pink and opaque. This takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. If they are overcooked, they become tough. Season with salt and pepper before cooking for the best flavor.
Creating a Creamy Sauce
Add cheese slowly to make a creamy sauce. If you dump it all in at once, it can clump. Start with a little and whisk well. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.
Presentation Suggestions
Serve in deep pasta bowls for a nice look. This helps keep the sauce and shrimp in place. For a pop of color, sprinkle extra parsley on top. A bit of extra Parmesan cheese also adds a tasty touch.
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can brighten up your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo with some veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, and broccoli work great. They add color and nutrients. Just toss these veggies in the skillet with the shrimp. Cook them until they soften a bit. This adds flavor and makes the dish more filling.
Protein Alternatives
If you want to switch up the protein, chicken and scallops are great choices. Cook the chicken pieces or scallops just like the shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try mushrooms. They soak up the sauce well and add a nice texture. You can use any kind of mushrooms. Just slice them and cook them with the garlic.
Different Pasta Types
You can play with different pasta shapes too. Linguine and penne are both excellent options. Each shape holds the sauce differently. If you need gluten-free options, look for rice or corn-based pasta. They work well in this dish and taste great too. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing. This helps keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy. Leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, you have two good choices: the microwave or stovetop. If you use the microwave, place the pasta in a bowl. Add a splash of cream or water to keep it moist. Heat it in short bursts. Stir after each burst to avoid hot spots. For stovetop, use a skillet over low heat. Add a little butter or cream to rehydrate the dish. This will help avoid a dried-out texture.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo! To do this, cool it completely first. Then, place it in freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently to restore its creamy goodness.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo?
This dish takes just 15 minutes to make.
– Prep time is 5 minutes.
– Cooking time takes about 10 minutes.
You can serve it fast and enjoy a tasty meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp.
– Thaw the shrimp before cooking.
– Place them in cold water for 10-15 minutes.
– Pat them dry before adding to the skillet.
This will help them cook evenly.
Is this recipe healthy?
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo is tasty but rich.
– One serving has about 600 calories.
– It includes protein from shrimp and healthy fats from butter and cream.
– Consider portion size if you watch calories.
You can add veggies for more nutrients.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo?
This dish pairs well with many sides.
– A simple green salad adds freshness.
– Garlic bread is great for soaking up sauce.
– Steamed vegetables provide a nice crunch.
These sides create a balanced meal and enhance flavor.
You’ve learned how to make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Alfredo. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best results. You can also customize it with veggies or different proteins. Store leftovers properly, and reheating tips will help keep it tasty. This dish is not only satisfying but also fun to prepare. Enjoy impressing friends and family with your cooking skills!
