Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience! If you’re craving a dish that’s both rich and comforting, then this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta might just be your new favorite. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a luscious cream sauce, perfectly enveloping tender fettuccine. With a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is not only quick to whip up but also sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of making this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn a lovely pink color, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is heated through.
- Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts into a velvety, smooth consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix them together with the creamy sauce, ensuring that each shrimp is well-coated.
- Carefully add the fettuccine pasta into the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is thoroughly combined and luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce.
- Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or some crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re looking to make this dish even heartier, consider tossing in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Remember, cooking is all about personal preference, so feel free to experiment!
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing shrimp, be sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause them to steam instead of sauté. And remember, shrimp cook quickly; once they are pink and opaque, they are done! The key to a successful cream sauce is low heat and continuous stirring once you add the cheese to avoid clumping.
FAQ
Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken?
Absolutely! You can easily swap shrimp for diced chicken breast, just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding the sauce.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently and add the cooked pasta and shrimp when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
There you have it—a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to delight everyone at your table. So why not gather your ingredients and create something truly delectable tonight? Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!