Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious, creamy pasta dish that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Shrimp Scampi Alfredo. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of white wine and Parmesan cheese. The fettuccine pasta adds the ideal base, and with just the right touch of red pepper flakes, it’s a dish that’ll satisfy all your cravings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Shrimp Scampi Alfredo will quickly become a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients 🛒🍤🍝
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta 🍝
- ½ cup reserved pasta water 💧
- 16 ounces large raw shrimp, peeled and de-veined 🍤
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste 🧂
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste 🌶️
- ¼ teaspoon paprika, plus more to taste 🌶️
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 🫒
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
- 1 teaspoon onion powder 🌰
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as sauvignon blanc) 🍷
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream 🥛
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 🌶️
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving 🧀
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving 🌿
Direction
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta (do not rinse).
- While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a plate.
- In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion powder and whisk for 30 seconds. Add the white wine and whisk to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let the wine reduce by about a quarter of its original amount, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in the cream and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let the sauce cook for 2 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth.
- Remove from heat, add parsley, and season with more salt, pepper, and paprika as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add the shrimp and pasta to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Top with more Parmesan and parsley and serve immediately.
My Story
I’ve always been a fan of seafood pasta, but I wanted to create something with a rich, creamy sauce that wasn’t too heavy. Shrimp Scampi Alfredo was the perfect balance I was searching for. The shrimp brings that sweet, briny flavor, and when combined with the creamy Alfredo sauce, it feels indulgent yet light at the same time. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—everyone loved it so much, I’ve been making it at least once a month ever since. The hint of white wine and the fresh parsley really elevate the flavors. It’s a versatile dish that’s just as perfect for a casual dinner as it is for a special gathering.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this dish with a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully, you can use any pasta you like, such as linguine, penne, or even spaghetti.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe without the white wine?
A: You can substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer not to use wine.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: While the sauce is best when made fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit more cream or pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this dish without dairy?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter, cream, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk, plant-based butter, and nutritional yeast for the cheese flavor.
Suggestion
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with garlic bread to scoop up the delicious Alfredo sauce.
- Top with red pepper flakes for extra spice if you love a little heat.
- Use fresh shrimp instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the dish.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Scampi Alfredo recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that come together to create a dish everyone will love. It’s quick enough to make on a weeknight but fancy enough for a dinner party. The rich Alfredo sauce, infused with garlic, white wine, and Parmesan, coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully, making every bite indulgent. The fresh parsley and red pepper flakes give it that little extra burst of freshness and spice. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner table!
— Sarah Cooper
