Creamy Shrimp Spaghetti in Tomato Alfredo Sauce:
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti:
8 ounces spaghetti pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the shrimp)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
For Garnish:
Freshly chopped parsley
Extra shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9 minutes).
Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Gently toss in the cooked shrimp, making sure they’re evenly distributed in the sauce.
Serve:
Serve the creamy shrimp spaghetti in bowls or on plates.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavors.
For added texture and flavor, you could serve this with some garlic bread or a side salad.
This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with a rich, creamy sauce and flavorful shrimp! Enjoy!