One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Simple and Quick Dish

If you’re craving a quick and tasty meal, try my One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo! This dish combines the zing of fresh shrimp with rich, creamy sauce, all made in just one pan. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Let's dive into this fun and satisfying recipe that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

- 8 oz fettuccine pasta

- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

- Lemon wedges for serving

To make One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, gather these ingredients first. Each one plays an important role in this dish. The fettuccine pasta is the base, providing a hearty texture. The shrimp adds protein and flavor, making it both filling and delicious.

Using extra virgin olive oil gives the dish a nice, rich taste. Garlic adds depth and aroma, making the kitchen smell wonderful. The heavy cream creates a smooth, creamy sauce, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick that ties everything together.

Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients, making it more balanced. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, the parsley and lemon wedges add freshness when serving. These ingredients come together quickly, making the meal simple and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. When the oil shimmers, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute.

3. The garlic should smell great, but don’t let it brown.

4. Now add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet.

5. Season the shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.

7. Once cooked, take the shrimp out and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

2. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring.

3. Keep stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the cream.

4. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta to the skillet.

5. Pour in about 2 cups of water, enough to cover the pasta.

6. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Cook the fettuccine based on the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

Final Touches

1. Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and return the shrimp to the skillet.

2. Add 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves to the skillet.

3. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and mixes well.

4. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve the dish hot, in a large, shallow bowl.

6. Twirl the pasta into a nest shape and place the shrimp on top.

7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright touch.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp

To cook shrimp just right, timing matters. Shrimp cook quickly. You want them pink and opaque. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use medium heat to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can become tough. Keep an eye on them.

For flavor, season the shrimp well. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a kick. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the taste.

Achieving Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Making a smooth Alfredo sauce is key. Start with heavy cream. Heat it gently until it simmers. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously. This helps the cheese melt evenly.

To avoid clumping, add cheese slowly. Stir it in bit by bit. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This keeps it creamy and helps everything blend.

Serving Suggestions

For a great meal, think about sides. Fresh bread or a salad pairs well. You can also serve garlic bread for a tasty touch.

When plating, use a large, shallow bowl. Twirl the fettuccine into a nest shape. Lay the shrimp on top for a nice look. Finish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. A lemon wedge on the side adds a pop of color and flavor.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works great here. Just cut it into small pieces and cook it like the shrimp. Tofu is another good swap. Use firm tofu, and sauté it until it's golden brown for a nice texture.

For those who need dairy-free options, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It adds a unique flavor. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese and give you a cheesy taste without dairy.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding veggies makes this dish even better. Spinach is already in the recipe, but you can add bell peppers or zucchini. Just slice them thin and sauté them with the garlic. This boosts the nutrition and adds color.

You can also spice it up! A dash of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Or, try some Italian herbs like oregano or basil for a fresh taste. These small changes can make a big difference.

Vegan Version

To make a vegan version, start with plant-based pasta. Many types are available now. For the creamy sauce, use cashew cream or a store-bought vegan cream.

Substituting Parmesan cheese is easy. Look for vegan cheese brands or use nutritional yeast. This keeps the flavor rich while staying plant-based. Enjoy your meal guilt-free and delicious!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store your One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh longer. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to eat it within that time for the best taste.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the dish evenly. Add a splash of water or cream to help restore moisture. Stir often to keep the pasta from sticking. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo! To do this, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps keep the flavor and texture intact.

FAQs

How long does it take to make One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo?

It takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. The prep time is around 10 minutes. You will spend about 20 minutes cooking.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. Fresh shrimp taste great, but frozen shrimp work well too.

What can I serve with Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo?

Here are some tasty sides to pair with your dish:

- Garlic bread

- Mixed green salad

- Roasted vegetables

- Steamed broccoli

- Lemon wedges for extra zest

We covered how to make One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, step by step. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking tips, and possible variations. This dish is simple, tasty, and offers room for your creativity. Whether you want to swap shrimp for chicken or make it vegan, the options are endless. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them gently. Enjoy making this dish your own, and share it with family and friends. It's sure to impress every time you serve it!