Craving that delicious Red Lobster Shrimp Alfredo but don't want to pay the restaurant price? This recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen! It's easier than you think to create this rich and creamy seafood pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant homemade meal. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Combine and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Alfredo:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt more smoothly and have a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor.
- Add some veggies: For a healthier and more flavorful dish, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Shrimp Alfredo: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Shrimp Alfredo: Incorporate 1/2 cup of your favorite tomato sauce into the Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on serving size and ingredients used)
This recipe provides a satisfying and delicious meal. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly fits the bill! Enjoy!