Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine
Creamy shrimp fettuccine combines tender shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic basil in a rich, velvety sauce, perfect for a comforting, elegant meal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and boil for 1 minute or until they turn pink.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Continue boiling the shrimp liquid in the saucepan.
- Add chicken broth or white wine and minced garlic to the saucepan.
- Boil until the liquid is reduced to 1/2 cup, about 12 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms, whipping cream, dried basil, and salt to the saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions and drain.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the sauce and heat for 1 minute.
- Place the cooked fettuccine in a large bowl.
- Spoon the shrimp and sauce mixture over the pasta.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your sauce, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you’re out of whipping cream, half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream can work as substitutes, though the sauce may be less rich. For a lighter version, substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy shrimp fettuccine with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables would also add color and nutrients. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Chicken And Shrimp Fettuccine for a delicious dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce curdle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine contains roughly 261 calories, with 9g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2157mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Frozen shrimp may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they're cooked through.
What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can substitute with pecorino romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly, so adjust the quantity to your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best to prepare this dish fresh, as the pasta can become mushy when stored. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook fresh fettuccine to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).