Craving that creamy, dreamy Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo? Forget the drive and the wait! This recipe brings the restaurant's beloved dish right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and tastes unbelievably delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Restaurant-Quality Alfredo
Follow these simple steps for a perfect Shrimp Alfredo every time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. 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.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Romano cheese. Stir constantly over medium-low heat until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the cooked shrimp and gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
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.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some prefer a saltier or peppier Alfredo.
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations: Spice Up Your Alfredo
- Lemon Shrimp Alfredo: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Vegetable Alfredo: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms, to the sauce along with the shrimp.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This delicious Shrimp Alfredo recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's an easy, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!