This Shrimp Alfredo Linguine is a creamy and yummy dish that everyone will love! With tender shrimp mingling in a rich Alfredo sauce over flavorful linguine, it’s a winner for any meal.
The best part? It comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. I often whip this up when I’m short on time, and it never fails to impress! 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: Linguine adds a lovely texture and helps hold the creamy sauce. If you’re out, other long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti can work just as well.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for this dish, but frozen shrimp (thawed) are a great option too. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half or light cream if you want a lighter option, but it won’t be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parm gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese works, but try to avoid the powdered kind as it may not melt well. Pecorino Romano is another tasty substitute.
How Do I Achieve a Silky Smooth Alfredo Sauce?
To get that creamy, smooth Alfredo sauce, it’s important to follow these key steps:
- First, melt the butter over medium heat before adding garlic. This builds a flavorful base.
- Keep the heat low when adding your cream and milk to avoid boiling, which can make the sauce grainy.
- Gradually whisk in the cheese until it melts completely. This helps avoid clumps and ensures a silky texture.
If the sauce feels too thick, just add a bit of your reserved pasta water. It will help loosen it up without losing flavor!
Shrimp Alfredo Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Alfredo Linguine takes about 30 minutes in total! You can spend around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later. Set the drained linguine aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but don’t let it burn! Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir the mixture and let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly.
4. Add the Cheese:
Once your sauce has thickened, gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted and the sauce is smooth. If you want a little kick, feel free to add the red pepper flakes at this step. After mixing, taste the sauce and season it with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked linguine into the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Alfredo sauce until all the pasta is evenly coated. If you find the sauce too thick, don’t worry! Just add in your reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Shrimp and Final Touches:
Carefully return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently stir everything together to combine and warm the shrimp through. Your dish is nearly ready!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat, grab a serving bowl, and plate up your creamy Shrimp Alfredo Linguine. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a final touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp beforehand. The best way to thaw them is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed, and then toss it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time according to the type you choose!