Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine Recipe for a Quick Dinner
When it comes to quick dinners that are both satisfying and indulgent, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine stands out as a delightful choice. This elegant pasta dish, rich with buttery flavors and succulent shrimp, can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests, this recipe balances creamy textures and aromatic garlic to create a feast for the senses.
Ingredients
To prepare Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine, gather the following fresh ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
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Cook the Fettuccine: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the fettuccine and set aside.
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Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
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Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve and Garnish: Divide the creamy garlic shrimp fettuccine among serving plates, garnishing with fresh parsley and offering lemon wedges on the side for an extra zest.
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Pasta Cooking: Don’t forget to salt the water before adding the fettuccine; this is essential for flavor. Cooking the pasta al dente will allow it to absorb some of the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Garlic Flavor: For a more robust garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to the sauce. This will give you a sweeter, less pungent taste.
- Cheese Choices: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano can work just as well. For a twist, try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to create a delightful vegetarian fettuccine.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream or cashew cream along with nutritional yeast for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy version of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic shrimp fettuccine pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and a glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For an added touch, serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine is a dish that balances ease and indulgence, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something special without the fuss. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Explore more about cooking techniques and pasta recipes to elevate your culinary skills and keep your dining experiences exciting. Don’t forget to share your cooking triumphs and spread the joy of this delicious dish with friends and family!
