Lemon Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender shrimp, a creamy lemon-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. With bright lemon zest, rich garlic, and a silky sauce enhanced by Parmesan and pesto, every bite feels indulgent yet fresh. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 garlic cloves, minced and divided
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Optional garnishes: shredded Parmesan, chopped parsley, fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp, 4 minced garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Transfer shrimp and juices to a plate.
5. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
6. Add the remaining 2 garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds.
7. Sprinkle in the flour and cook while stirring for 1 minute.
8. Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and pesto until the mixture is smooth.
9. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Reduce the heat to low and stir in lemon juice and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
11. Add the cooked shrimp with juices and the pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce.
12. Add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
13. Taste and season with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
14. Garnish with Parmesan, parsley, or lemon juice if desired.

Serving Tips

• Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy and hot.
• Add fresh lemon juice right before serving for a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for added richness.
• Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
• For a lighter meal, serve alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus.
• Add cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit more heat.
• A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Add a splash of milk, cream, or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat for the best texture.
• Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long as it can become rubbery.
• Freezing is not recommended because creamy sauces often separate.

Variations

1. Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine
   Add 1 to 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a smoky, spicy twist.
2. Spinach Lemon Shrimp Fettuccine
   Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach during the final 2 minutes of cooking until wilted.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Fettuccine
   Add 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy layer of flavor.
4. Mushroom Shrimp Fettuccine
   Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms before making the sauce for an earthy flavor boost.
5. Tomato Basil Shrimp Fettuccine
   Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and a handful of fresh basil right before serving.
6. Garlic Herb Shrimp Fettuccine
   Mix in Italian seasoning or fresh thyme and rosemary for a bold herb profile.
7. White Wine Shrimp Fettuccine
   Replace 1/2 cup chicken broth with dry white wine for a more sophisticated sauce.
8. Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine
   Increase lemon juice and garlic, reduce cream, and add 2 tablespoons extra butter.
9. Pesto Shrimp Fettuccine
   Double the pesto for a more intense basil and Parmesan flavor.
10. Parmesan Crusted Shrimp Fettuccine
    Coat the shrimp lightly with Parmesan while cooking for added texture.
11. Broccoli Shrimp Fettuccine
    Add steamed or roasted broccoli florets to make the dish heartier.
12. Asparagus Lemon Shrimp Fettuccine
    Add sautéed or roasted asparagus pieces for a fresh, spring-inspired variation.
13. Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Fettuccine
    Season the shrimp with lemon pepper seasoning instead of salt and pepper.
14. Shrimp and Scallop Fettuccine
    Add 1/2 pound scallops for a more elevated seafood blend.
15. Lightened-Up Shrimp Fettuccine
    Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream and reduce butter.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
   Yes, linguine, spaghetti, or penne work well.
3. Can I substitute chicken for shrimp?
   Yes, sliced chicken breast cooks well in the same pan.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Keep heat low when adding lemon juice and Parmesan.
5. What if my sauce is too thick?
   Add reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Use coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan substitutes.
7. Is this dish spicy?
   No, but you can adjust heat with more or less red pepper flakes.
8. Can I use store-bought pesto?
   Yes, and it works perfectly for this recipe.
9. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
   Add it at the very end to avoid overcooking.
10. How do I keep the shrimp tender?
    Cook only until opaque; overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery.

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine delivers bold flavor and creamy comfort in every bite. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a fast cooking time, it’s the perfect recipe for busy nights or special occasions. The bright lemon, rich garlic, and tender shrimp create a balanced and satisfying dish that feels both gourmet and effortless. Serve it hot, finish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

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