Ah, the Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine—a dish so creamy, so dreamy, it’s like a hug from your Italian grandma. If you’ve been craving that restaurant-quality pasta at home, you’re in luck. This recipe is your golden ticket to Alfredo heaven, no reservation required.
Why This Recipe Works
- The secret to the velvety Alfredo sauce? A perfect blend of heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, melted to silky perfection.
- Succulent shrimp add a luxurious touch, turning a simple pasta dish into a seafood extravaganza.
- Fettuccine’s wide, flat noodles are the ideal canvas for clinging onto every drop of that creamy sauce.
- Quick and easy to make, this recipe delivers gourmet results in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable to your taste, whether you like it extra garlicky or with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Tip: The pasta water is gold for adjusting sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the shrimp to ensure they sear nicely.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the shrimp is heated through, about 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Divide the shrimp Alfredo fettuccine among plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, dreamy goodness.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use 1/2 teaspoon. To make this dish ahead, prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine when ready to serve. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with milk and a tablespoon of flour to thicken. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet when sautéing the garlic for an earthy twist.
- Swap the shrimp for chicken breast strips for a different protein option.
- Stir in a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just add them at the end to warm through, so they don’t become rubbery from overcooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze shrimp Alfredo?
A: It’s not recommended, as the dairy-based sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting texture.
Summary
This Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine recipe brings the restaurant experience to your kitchen with its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta. Quick, customizable, and utterly delicious, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.