Easy Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious dinner that feels both comforting and a little special, this Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine tossed in a luscious, vibrant sauce that’s not only creamy but packed with the sweet smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
• Creamy but Light: The sauce is rich and velvety, yet not overly heavy, making it satisfying without feeling weighed down.
• Colorful and Inviting: The roasted red pepper sauce adds a beautiful pop of color, making your plate look as good as it tastes.
• Protein-Packed: Shrimp provides a lean source of protein, keeping the dish balanced and nutritious.
• Impressively Simple: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make it an approachable recipe for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather a handful of simple yet key ingredients, each bringing a unique dimension to your Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. From fresh shrimp to silky cream and vibrant peppers, every element contributes to the harmony of taste, texture, and color.

• Fresh Shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp ensure quick cooking and tender bites.
• Fettuccine Pasta: Its broad, flat shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully for every mouthful.
• Roasted Red Peppers: These add smoky sweetness and gorgeous color to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Provides the luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant depth of flavor that complements the shrimp and peppers perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a savory, nutty finish that enhances creaminess and flavor.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing shrimp and garlic, adding richness and mild fruitiness.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: A fresh herb garnish that brightens and balances the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: To season just right and bring all the ingredients together harmoniously.

Variations for Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

One of the best things about this Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is how easily you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Feel free to get creative with these exciting variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for a lively heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted zucchini for a veggie-forward meal.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy but vegan-friendly sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
• Low-Carb Friendly: Substitute fettuccine with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

How to Make Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente following package instructions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in chopped roasted red peppers and blend with heavy cream, cooking on low heat until warmed through and smooth. If you like a smoother sauce, you can use a blender or immersion blender to puree the mixture.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and creamy. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if necessary. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently. Finally, stir in the cooked fettuccine until every strand is coated in that dreamy sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp cook evenly and taste best—avoid pre-cooked options.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp become rubbery fast, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps loosen sauce without diluting flavor.
• Roast Your Own Peppers: For extra authenticity and flavor, roast fresh red peppers instead of using jarred.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Sprinkle basil or parsley just before serving to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

How to Serve Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley, and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil elevate both taste and presentation, giving the dish a restaurant-quality finish at home.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed garlic broccoli pairs wonderfully, balancing creaminess with fresh, light textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls for a cozy feel or twirl the fettuccine into neat nests on the plate for a professional touch. Adding lemon wedges on the side gives guests the option to brighten the dish even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shrimp can become rubbery if kept too long, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or soon after.

Freezing

This dish is best eaten fresh, but you can freeze the sauce (without pasta) in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently, then toss with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce, stirring frequently to maintain smoothness and prevent the shrimp from toughening.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well—just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap regular fettuccine for gluten-free pasta or use spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a naturally gluten-free option.

How spicy is the creamy roasted red pepper sauce?

The sauce itself is mild and sweet; spice can be added easily with red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Warm gently before combining with pasta and shrimp for best flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the shrimp?

Reheat the dish slowly over low heat, adding a little cream or pasta water, and avoid overheating shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fettuccine with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and creamy comfort that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but comes together quickly, making it perfect for any weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite pasta dish!

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