Creamy Alfredo Shrimp Linguini

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Servings: 4

 Ingredients

 For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

 For the Pasta:

• 12 oz linguini (or fettuccine/spaghetti)

• Salt for pasta water

 For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)

• 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of nutmeg

 For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra parmesan for serving

• Lemon wedges (optional)

 Instructions

 Step 1: Cook the Linguini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook linguini according to package directions until al dente.

3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

 Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

3. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until shrimp turns pink and opaque.

4. Add minced garlic in the last 30 seconds. Stir gently.

5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. (Leave any juices in the pan.)

Don’t overcook the shrimp — they’ll go rubbery fast!

 Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.

2. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

4. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, one handful at a time, until fully melted.

5. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).

 Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp & Sauce

1. Add the drained linguini to the skillet and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce.

2. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp and any juices from the plate.

3. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.

 Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, extra parmesan, and fresh cracked pepper.

2. Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish.

 What to Serve With Alfredo Shrimp Linguini

• Garlic bread or parmesan breadsticks 🥖

• Caesar salad or arugula salad 🥗

• Roasted broccoli or asparagus 🥦

• A chilled glass of white wine (Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay) 🍷

 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to re-loosen the sauce.

• Freezing: Not ideal, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on shrimp size, cream type, and cheese used.