Indulging in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish is one of life’s simple pleasures, and when you add succulent shrimp to the mix, it becomes an unforgettable experience. This Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful twist on the classic Alfredo sauce, enhanced with the rich flavors of garlic and the luxurious texture of cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo. The first is undoubtedly the flavor; the combination of garlic, cheese, and shrimp creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Secondly, the creamy sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, who can resist a meal that combines pasta and shrimp? It’s the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredient Checklist

To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 green onions, sliced
4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet for the sauce
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander for draining pasta

Directions: Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the sliced green onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir for another minute to cook off the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cream Cheese

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cream cheese cubes. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Stir in the seasoned salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. The sauce should be rich and flavorful, so feel free to add more seasoning if desired.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 7: Add Cheeses

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo hot, garnished with additional green onions or cheese if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be enjoyed as leftovers!

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some easy adaptations:

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free fettuccine or linguine.
To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, consider using spiralized zucchini instead of pasta.
Add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutrient boost!

What Not to Do

To ensure your Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery if cooked too long.
Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s essential for adjusting the sauce consistency.
Be cautious with the salt; the cheeses add a lot of flavor, and you can always add more later!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (if you can resist!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Cool the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Microwaving is an option too; just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance. Just combine everything right before serving!

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details to create this delightful Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, set up your kitchen, and immerse yourself in the delicious aromas that will soon fill the air. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delectable dish!