Alfredo Pasta with Black Pepper Shrimp

Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp paprika (optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta
2 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
4. Combine:
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
5. Serve:
1. Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or salad.
Enjoy your creamy, peppery Alfredo Pasta with Black Pepper Shrimp!