Introduction
One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, comforting pasta dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen with minimal cleanup. This recipe is designed specifically for busy home cooks who want a creamy, indulgent meal without using multiple pots and pans. Tender shrimp, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a silky Alfredo sauce come together in one pan, allowing the pasta to absorb every bit of flavor as it cooks. The result is a luxurious dish that feels elegant yet approachable, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. This long-form recipe is written for website use, fully detailed, and suitable for ad-friendly platforms.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)
- ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper (optional for color and mild sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Preparation Steps
Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear properly. Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika, then set them aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Heat a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil along with the butter. Once the butter has melted and begins to foam gently, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside, keeping them warm.
In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits left from cooking the shrimp. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the uncooked fettuccine, pressing it down gently so it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
Cover the pan and let the pasta cook, stirring every minute or two to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, it will absorb the liquid and release starches that help thicken the sauce naturally. After about 8 to 10 minutes, the fettuccine should be tender and the sauce noticeably thicker. If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a small splash of broth or cream as needed.
Once the pasta reaches an al dente texture, lower the heat and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and diced red bell pepper. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently toss everything together until the shrimp are warmed through and evenly coated in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside roasted broccoli or asparagus, which complement the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Tips for Best Results
Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, since they can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. If reheating leftovers, add a small splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. You can substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, salmon, or even sautéed mushrooms for a meatless version. Whole wheat or gluten-free fettuccine can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly. Adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas can introduce extra color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
Conclusion
One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a satisfying, creamy pasta dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its one-pan preparation makes it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, while its classic flavors appeal to a wide audience. With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is designed to be reliable, comforting, and consistently delicious.
Disclaimer
This recipe article is created for informational and entertainment purposes only.