One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is the epitome of culinary simplicity meeting gourmet delight. This dish has always been a favorite in my family, particularly on those busy weeknights when time is short but the desire for a comforting, hearty meal is high. I remember the first time my grandmother made this for us; the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce coating the tender fettuccine and succulent shrimp was nothing short of magical. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and allowing more time to enjoy the meal and the company.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
16 ounces large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
8 ounces dry fettuccine noodles
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Pinch of nutmeg
Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Shrimp
Melt Butter and Cook Shrimp:
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is hot and bubbling, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become rubbery.
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate or bowl and cover with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Cooking the Base
Sauté the Garlic:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
Add Liquid Ingredients and Noodles:
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk into the pan with the garlic. Stir to combine. Add the dry fettuccine noodles, making sure to stir them around to separate and coat them in the liquid.
Increase the heat to bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer. Cook for about 11 minutes, or until the fettuccine is al dente, according to your pasta package directions. Stir once halfway through to ensure the noodles do not stick together.
Preparing the Alfredo Sauce
Check Liquid Absorption:
After the pasta has cooked, most of the liquid should be absorbed. If there is still a lot of liquid, cook for a few more minutes uncovered, stirring occasionally.
Add Cream and Cheese:
Once the liquid is mostly absorbed, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything together until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combining and Finishing
Reincorporate the Shrimp:
Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Thicken the Sauce:
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and cling to the pasta and shrimp.
Serving
Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with chicken breast, cooked the same way, or even use scallops for a more luxurious twist.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Cook the vegetables in the initial butter step before proceeding with the garlic.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute, almond milk or oat milk, and dairy-free Parmesan cheese to cater to lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute with whole wheat fettuccine or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a dish that beautifully balances convenience with gourmet appeal. The creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with tender fettuccine and succulent shrimp, creates a meal that is both comforting and elegant. The use of a single pan not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors as the pasta absorbs the rich broth and cream.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy it. The memories of family gatherings, the aromatic garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal make this dish a truly enjoyable experience.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful One Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and become a favorite in your home.
