Our luxuriously creamy Shrimp Alfredo is ready in just 30 minutes making it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet also fancy enough for special occasions without having to spend hours in the kitchen.
Prepare 1 1/2 pounds raw shrimp by peeling and deveining, if it isn't already. You can also remove the tails as a matter of personal preference.
Cook 1 pound fettuccine according to package directions.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic.
Sauté the shrimp for 4-5 minutes, or until they are pink and no longer translucent. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside in a bowl. Reduce the heat to low.
For the sauce, melt 1/4 cup salted butter in the same skillet. Add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and increase the heat to medium. Whisk together and cook for 2 minutes, or until the flour turns a light golden color.
Slowly pour in 4 cups half and half while whisking to combine. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium, whisking constantly. Just before it reaches a simmer, add 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Add the cooked shrimp and pasta to the sauce, and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it simmers and as it stands.
Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a garnish of 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional).
Notes
For a thinner sauce, add extra half and half or pasta water. For a thicker sauce, add extra parmesan cheese.