Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

1. 1
   prep

   Pat the shrimp dry and season.

   1.Use paper towels to thoroughly pat shrimp dry.

   2.Season shrimp with a pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides.

   TIPDry shrimp sear better and develop a golden crust. If they're wet, they'll steam instead.
2. 2
   boil · ~10 min

   Cook the fettuccine until al dente.

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

   2.Add 1 tablespoon salt to the boiling water.

   3.Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).

   4.Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

   TIPDon't rinse the pasta — the starch helps the sauce cling. Just drain and set aside.
3. 3
   fry · ~5 min

   Sear the shrimp.

   1.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   2.Add shrimp in a single layer and cook until pink and opaque (about 2 minutes per side).

   3.Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.

   TIPWork in batches if needed. Overcrowding the pan drops the temperature and steams the shrimp.
4. 4
   saute · ~2 min

   Build the alfredo base.

   1.Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.

   2.Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

   3.Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

   TIPKeep the garlic moving — burnt garlic turns bitter and ruins the sauce.
5. 5
   simmer · ~4 min

   Make the cream sauce.

   1.Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps.

   2.Add a pinch of salt and black pepper.

   3.Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes).

   TIPKeep the heat at medium-low. High heat can cause the cream to separate and turn grainy.
6. 6
   mix · ~2 min

   Combine pasta and sauce.

   1.Remove skillet from heat.

   2.Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

   3.Toss in the drained fettuccine and gently fold until evenly coated.

   4.Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time if the sauce feels too thick.

   TIPAlways add Parmesan off the heat to prevent it from turning stringy or clumping.
7. 7
   assemble

   Top with seared shrimp and garnish.

   1.Place seared shrimp on top of the plated pasta.

   2.Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

   3.Serve immediately.

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