This One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that comes together quickly in just one pan. Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender shrimp, this dish is perfect for a simple yet delicious dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450g), peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken broth: 3 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Fettuccine pasta: 8 oz (225g)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the fettuccine pasta to the pan, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. If necessary, break the pasta in half to fit it in the pan. Cook the pasta for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.
Step 6: Combine the Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, stirring to combine with the fettuccine and sauce. Let everything heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat and garnish the Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Cooking Notes:
- Shrimp: Be sure to remove the shrimp promptly once cooked to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery when overdone.
- Pasta: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to ensure it doesn’t stick together and cooks evenly.
- Creaminess: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little extra chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Variations:
1. Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo
Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil for a richer garlic butter flavor.
2. Spicy Shrimp Alfredo
Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Veggie-Loaded Shrimp Alfredo
Add fresh spinach, broccoli, or peas to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce may be a little less rich and thick.
Q: Can I make this dish with another type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
This One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is an ideal recipe for beginners looking for a quick and delicious meal. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and rich Parmesan flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, cooking everything in one pan makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Try this recipe today for a comforting and satisfying dinner!