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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Fettuccine Pasta: This wide noodle is great for holding onto the sauce, but you can swap it for linguine or even gluten-free pasta if needed. I love using fresh pasta when available, as it cooks faster and adds a lovely texture!

Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. If you’re allergic to seafood or want a vegetarian option, consider using grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms instead.

Heavy Cream: It gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute half-and-half. Coconut cream could work well for a dairy-free version, though it might alter the flavor slightly.

Parmesan & Romano Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese can work. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative for a cheesy flavor.

How Do You Achieve a Creamy Alfredo Sauce?

Creating a smooth and creamy Alfredo sauce is key to this dish. Remember these tips to get it right:

• Start with medium heat to gently sauté the garlic. Browning it can lead to bitterness.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and let it simmer. Be patient; it thickens over a few minutes!
• When adding cheese, make sure to stir it in slowly. This helps it melt perfectly and creates a silky sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta water or additional cream. Adjust as needed!

How to Make Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Pasta and Shrimp:

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For The Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes about 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, plus 20 minutes for making the creamy sauce and cooking the shrimp. Perfect for a quick and delightful dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

First, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Add a good amount of salt and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

While you’re waiting for the pasta, it’s time to cook the shrimp! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Once they’re done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

Now, let’s make that creamy Alfredo sauce! In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring frequently. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

4. Add the Cheeses:

Reduce the heat to low and start adding the grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses (if using). Stir them in gradually until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you like!

5. Combine Everything:

Next, add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss gently until the pasta is well coated. It’s okay if it’s a little saucy; that just means it’s going to taste even better!

6. Finish with Shrimp and Serve:

Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed and heated through. Stir in the chopped parsley for freshness! Serve your luscious Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this safely by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.

Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream, though it will give the sauce a slightly different flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I Make This Dish in Advance?

While the pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and shrimp a few hours ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and combine everything right before you’re ready to serve, reheating gently.