This Shrimp Alfredo Linguine is a creamy dream come true! With tender shrimp, buttery sauce, and al dente linguine, it’s like a hug on a plate. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip this up for dinner when friends come over. Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress. Who doesn’t enjoy pasta night? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This flat, long pasta is perfect for Alfredo. If you don’t have linguine, you can use fettuccine or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Shrimp: I recommend using medium-sized shrimp for a good bite. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative, frozen shrimp works nicely too! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before cooking.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, though it may not be as thick. Coconut milk is a dairy-free substitute if you’re vegan.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use Romano cheese or even a vegan parmesan for dairy-free preferences.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor. If you only have garlic powder, you can use about 1/4 teaspoon, but it won’t be quite the same!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Use medium heat so they cook evenly without burning. Over high heat, they can become rubbery.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook!
- If you notice shrimp curling tightly, it’s a sign they are getting overcooked. Keep an eye on them!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender shrimp in your Alfredo every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Seasoning:
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Alfredo Linguine takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to impress guests. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it just to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If you find the sauce too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Combine Everything:
Season the sauce with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Add the cooked linguine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are well coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Shrimp Alfredo Linguine immediately, garnished with extra parsley and more grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, garlicky delight!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp beforehand. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag. Once thawed, drain them well before cooking.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Sure! While linguine is a classic choice, you can substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary slightly from linguine.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Just sauté the vegetables in the olive oil before adding the garlic and cream.
