Ingredients

For the Pasta & Shrimp:

• 1 pound fettuccine pasta

• 1¼ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda (helps shrimp stay plump)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 8 tablespoons (½ cup) unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1¼ cups heavy cream

• 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus extra for serving

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped

• 1 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Prepare the Components

Bring a large pot of generously salted water (2 tablespoons kosher salt per gallon) to boil. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and baking soda. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes to allow seasonings to penetrate.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large stainless steel skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes. Add olive oil and immediately add seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just pink and opaque, stirring occasionally. Remove shrimp to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook until golden, about 2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and smooth.

Cook and Combine

While making the sauce, cook fettuccine in the boiling water until al dente according to package directions, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Add the drained pasta directly to the alfredo sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water gradually if needed to achieve perfect consistency. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently fold in.

Serving

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side. This luxurious dish is ready in about 30 minutes and delivers the rich, creamy flavors that complement your preference for indulgent seafood dishes.