Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Delight
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Delight is a beloved dish in our household, especially on special occasions. Every year, I whip this up for my son's birthday, pairing it with succulent shrimp that adds a touch of elegance to this classic meal. This recipe not only brings joy to our family table but also impresses guests with its rich, comforting flavor and surprisingly simple preparation. Made in the microwave for convenience, it can also be adapted for the stovetop. With a focus on healthier ingredients, I've replaced traditional components with light butter, light cream, and reduced-fat Parmesan, ensuring you can indulge without the guilt. Perfect for weeknights or when hosting friends, this Alfredo sauce is sure to become a favorite in your home too!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sweet butter
1/4 lb (1/2 cup) (Light butter works fine!)
Heavy cream or light cream
1 cup (Choose based on desired richness)
Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup (Freshly grated)
Salt
to taste (Adjust based on preference and shrimp if used)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe pot, add the sweet butter and heat on high for about 30 seconds, or until fully melted.
2
Carefully add the cream to the melted butter. Heat the mixture on high for approximately 1 minute, allowing it to warm but not boil.
3
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue to heat until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce.
4
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. When serving with shrimp, taste beforehand, as the shrimp may add enough saltiness on its own.
5
Cook your choice of pasta—angel hair works beautifully—and serve immediately by pouring the sauce over the warm noodles. Toss gently to coat all the pasta thoroughly in the sauce.
6
To elevate the dish, mix in cubed, grilled, or broiled chicken breast, or just keep it classic with shrimp. Don't forget to serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
2g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Delight?
It is a rich and comforting Alfredo sauce dish served with shrimp and pasta, known for its simple preparation and elegant flavor.
Is this Alfredo recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is an easy recipe designed for convenience, utilizing a microwave-safe pot for quick preparation.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
While the instructions focus on microwave preparation for convenience, the recipe can easily be adapted for the stovetop.
What type of butter should I use?
The recipe calls for sweet butter, though light butter works just as well if you prefer a healthier option.
How long does it take to melt the butter?
In the microwave, it takes about 30 seconds on high to fully melt the butter.
Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can choose between heavy cream or light cream based on your desired level of richness.
How long should I heat the cream?
Heat the cream with the melted butter on high for approximately 1 minute, ensuring it warms up but does not reach a boil.
What kind of cheese is best for this sauce?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use reduced-fat cheese?
Yes, the recipe suggests reduced-fat Parmesan as a way to indulge without the guilt.
How do I incorporate the cheese into the sauce?
Stir the freshly grated Parmesan into the warm cream mixture and continue to heat until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
What seasonings are used in this Alfredo sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Why should I taste the sauce before adding salt?
If you are serving the sauce with shrimp, the shrimp may add enough saltiness on its own, so it is best to taste first.
What type of pasta is recommended?
Angel hair pasta works beautifully with this creamy Alfredo sauce.
How should I serve the pasta and sauce?
Pour the sauce over warm noodles and toss gently to ensure all the pasta is thoroughly coated.
Can I add other proteins besides shrimp?
Yes, you can elevate the dish by mixing in cubed, grilled, or broiled chicken breast.
What is a good side dish for this meal?
A fresh green salad is recommended to create a balanced and complete meal.
Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it is a family favorite often prepared for birthdays and special events because of its elegant touch.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
This recipe contains 22.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
This is a low-carb sauce containing only 2g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in this meal?
Each serving provides 15g of protein.
Is this a healthy Alfredo recipe?
This version is 'lightened up' by using light butter and reduced-fat Parmesan cheese.
How many ingredients do I need for the sauce?
The sauce requires 5 main ingredients: butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
How do I prevent the cream from boiling?
Watch the microwave carefully and only heat for the suggested 1 minute, as the goal is to warm it, not boil it.
Can I use pre-ground pepper?
While the recipe suggests freshly ground pepper for the best flavor, pre-ground pepper can be used if necessary.
Is this a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, because it is made in the microwave and uses simple ingredients, it is perfect for busy weeknights.
What makes this sauce creamy?
The combination of melted butter, heated cream, and melted Parmesan creates a rich, creamy consistency.
How much pepper should I add?
The recipe recommends starting with 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Can I make this for guests?
Absolutely, it is designed to impress guests with its rich flavor and sophisticated presentation.
Can I store leftovers?
While best served immediately, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated, though the sauce may thicken.