Single Shrimp Fettuccine in 20 Min! Skip takeout, get restaurant-quality flavor! This easy recipe delivers perfectly cooked shrimp in a garlicky butter sauce, tossed with fettuccine for a delicious & satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or to satisfy your cravings!
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Total Time20 minutesmins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: fettuccine with shrimp, pasta, seafood, shrimp, shrimp fettuccine
Begin by boiling water in a medium-sized pot over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook it for about 8 minutes until tender. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander, transfer it to a bowl, and toss with half a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the noodles from sticking. Set this aside.
Next, in a 10-inch skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and optional crushed chili flakes, stirring occasionally for 30 seconds. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can leave out the chili flakes.
Add the shrimp to your skillet, sprinkling them with ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from the heat once the shrimp are cooked.
Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the shrimp. Drizzle over the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil and toss to combine everything well. To serve, transfer the Shrimp Fettuccine to a plate or bowl and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Preparation is Key: Since this meal cooks rapidly, it's important to have all your ingredients ready before you start.
Frozen Shrimp Strategy: Stocking up on bags of frozen shrimp is a convenient way to ensure you can whip up a great meal anytime. It's easy to use just the amount you need and keep the rest in the freezer for future quick and delicious meals.
Thawing Frozen Shrimp: If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure they're fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For a quicker method, place the shrimp in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes. Always pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before cooking to ensure the best texture.
Pasta Varieties: Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta. Penne, spaghetti, or rotini can also work well in this dish.
Butter Substitute: If you prefer, you can use additional olive oil in place of butter. This is a great alternative for those looking for a healthier option or who prefer the taste of olive oil.