Pasta combined with seafood is a culinary classic, and when topped with a rich Alfredo sauce, it becomes a luxurious treat. This recipe for Pasta with Shrimp and Alfredo Sauce offers a perfect blend of creamy texture and succulent shrimp, making it an ideal dish for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
Combining pasta with Alfredo sauce provides a rich and creamy base that complements the mild, sweet flavor of shrimp. The use of simple, high-quality ingredients like fresh shrimp, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. The inclusion of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley not only adds depth to the dish but also introduces a touch of herbaceous freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Ingredients with Quantity
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz of pasta (penne or fettuccine work best for holding the sauce)
- 2 tbsp of olive oil (extra virgin preferred for its robust flavor)
- 1 lb of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced (for a fragrant kick)
- 1 cup of heavy cream (for the creamy Alfredo base)
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (adds a salty, umami flavor)
- ½ cup of chicken broth (to thin the sauce slightly)
- 1 tsp of Italian seasoning (a blend of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
- 2 tbsp of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness)
Direction and Preparation Method
Follow these steps to create a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, typically about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat thoroughly. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing the pasta and shrimp together until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving dishes and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Conclusion
Pasta with Shrimp and Alfredo Sauce is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate. Its rich, creamy sauce perfectly complements the juicy, tender shrimp, while the pasta provides a satisfying base. This dish is surprisingly easy to make and can be served as a quick weeknight dinner or part of a more elaborate meal for special occasions. With its combination of simple ingredients and complex flavors, it’s sure to delight anyone who tries it.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 650 per serving
- Servings: 4