Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden features tender shrimp simmered in a creamy Parmesan sauce, served over fettuccine pasta, garnished with freshly ground black pepper and parsley for a rich and comforting Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- Ladle or large spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Chopping board
- Chef’s knife
- Serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
When preparing Shrimp Alfredo, ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to achieve the signature creamy and rich sauce that defines this dish. Heavy cream provides the base for the Alfredo sauce, so do not substitute it with low-fat alternatives to maintain authenticity. Fresh garlic and parsley add essential aromatic and fresh herbal notes, rounding out the flavor profile perfectly. Your version of Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden will capture the essence of the original Italian classic with these key ingredients.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side; remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium; melt butter in the same skillet.
- Add minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the cream thickens slightly.
- Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; cook until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked fettuccine and toss until well coated in the Alfredo sauce.
- Return cooked shrimp to the skillet; toss gently to combine and heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra black pepper.
Substitution
Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden copycat recipes often call for fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp can be used as a convenient alternative--just thaw them thoroughly before cooking to ensure even results. If heavy cream is not readily available, substituting with half-and-half mixed with a bit of cream cheese can still create a creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. When fresh Parmesan is hard to find, pre-grated Parmesan works, but freshly grated cheese will melt better and enhance the sauce's richness. You can swap fettuccine for linguine or even spaghetti based on your pantry, keeping in mind that thicker pasta like fettuccine holds the sauce more effectively. Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and prevent a rubbery texture in your dish.
Tips
Make sure to devein the shrimp properly for the best texture and taste in your Shrimp Alfredo. When cooking the fettuccine, salt the water generously to season the pasta as it cooks. Avoid overheating the cream and cheese mixture to prevent the sauce from curdling or becoming grainy. Use tongs to gently toss the pasta and shrimp in the sauce, ensuring even coating without breaking the noodles or overcooking the shrimp.
Nutritions
Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden offers a substantial source of protein with its 1 lb of shrimp, providing essential amino acids and nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium. The creamy Parmesan sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds a rich supply of calcium and fats, contributing to high calorie content and a creamy texture. Fettuccine pasta contributes carbohydrates necessary for energy, while olive oil and butter supply heart-healthy fats and enhance the dish's flavor profile. Your meal balances indulgent flavor and nutritional value, but portion control is key to managing calorie and fat intake.
Storage
Store leftover Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 2 to 3 days to ensure optimal flavor and safety. When reheating, use a low heat setting and add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture of the sauce for your best dining experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance Shrimp Alfredo by substituting fettuccine with linguine or penne for a different pasta texture. Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce richness while maintaining creaminess. Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine during the sauce preparation to add depth and a subtle kick. Roasting the shrimp with garlic and lemon zest before adding them to the sauce brings a smoky, citrus flavor that complements the creamy Parmesan base.
Allergies
Shrimp Alfredo contains shellfish, which is a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in some individuals. The dish also includes dairy ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, which may trigger symptoms in those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you have allergies or sensitivities to shellfish or dairy, it's important to avoid this dish or seek suitable alternatives.
Why this recipe?
Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden is beloved for its creamy Parmesan sauce paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine, delivering a rich and satisfying flavor experience. The dish balances savory and buttery notes with a hint of garlic, making each bite indulgent yet approachable. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic Italian-inspired textures and taste that are often hard to replicate at home. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this restaurant favorite anytime, with customizable ingredients and fresh preparation.