Shrimp Fettuccini
Creamy shrimp fettuccini with vibrant vegetables and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion that combines rich flavors with tender pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables in butter for 15 minutes, covered.
- Add flour and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add shrimp and cook for 15 minutes.
- Add half of the Velveeta cheese (chopped) and cook until melted.
- Add jalapeno pepper and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add half and half and cook until heated.
- Season to taste.
- Boil noodles and add to shrimp mixture.
- Transfer to a large, well-greased casserole dish.
- Top with remaining Velveeta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Bake at 350°F until cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the half and half. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the Velveeta with a blend of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor, and feel free to toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture. This dish pairs beautifully with Crab Spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shrimp Fettuccini with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. For a wine pairing, consider a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. This recipe also works well with sides from other Italian recipes, such as roasted vegetables or a simple caprese salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half and half or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Fettuccini contains roughly 909 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 697mg per serving (30% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and help you achieve the desired texture. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Fettuccini is a great choice for this recipe, as its wide shape holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as linguini or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it's cooked al dente.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more jalapeno or include red pepper flakes while cooking. If you enjoy a stronger kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce at the end or even incorporating diced serrano peppers for an extra layer of flavor. Adjust to your heat preference!
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).