One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a delightful fusion of succulent shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender fettuccine noodles, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for a comforting pasta meal but also impresses with its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to please both family and guests alike.
History of Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo, a beloved Italian pasta dish, has an interesting history that dates back to the early 20th century in Rome. The original recipe, known as “Fettuccine al Burro,” was created by Alfredo di Lelio, a restaurateur, who aimed to create a dish that would appeal to his pregnant wife’s appetite. The dish consists of fettuccine pasta tossed with butter and Parmesan cheese. Over time, variations of this classic dish have emerged, including the addition of cream to create the creamy Alfredo sauce that is popular today. This adaptation has made Fettuccine Alfredo a staple in Italian-American cuisine, cherished for its luxurious texture and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 Tbsp. Olive oil
- 8 oz. Fettuccine noodles
- 2 Tbsp. Butter, unsalted
- 2 tsp. Minced garlic
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- ½ cup Whole milk
- 1 ½ cups Heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fettuccine noodles to the skillet and toast them lightly in the garlic butter for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the noodles evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, adjusting to taste according to your preferences.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Garnish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
Cooking Tips
- Shrimp: Ensure that the shrimp are cooked just until they turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery.
- Alfredo Sauce: Stir the sauce continuously while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the skillet and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Pasta: Stir the fettuccine noodles occasionally to prevent them from clumping together and ensure even cooking.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or spinach to create a delicious meat-free version of this dish.
- Protein Variation: Substitute the shrimp with chicken breast or diced sausage for a different flavor profile that still pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free fettuccine noodles and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with garlic bread or a side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal. The creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce complements well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the dining experience.
Nutritional Information
One serving of One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo provides a balanced nutritional profile, offering protein from the shrimp and dairy from the Alfredo sauce. Below is a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal
- Protein: Around 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: About 40 grams
- Fat: Roughly 40 grams
In conclusion, One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce with the succulence of shrimp and the comforting texture of fettuccine noodles. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe promises to deliver gourmet flavors with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment. Try it out and explore different variations to suit your taste preferences, making it a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen repertoire.
FAQs
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