White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

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The White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo, Yes, you read that correctly—white chocolate and shrimp Alfredo sharing the same plate. This daring fusion, popularized by none other than Amy Slaton from the reality TV phenomenon “1000-Lb. Sisters,” marries the creamy, savory essence of Alfredo sauce with the unexpected sweetness of white chocolate.

How to make White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo

White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo is a unique dish that combines the creamy richness of traditional Alfredo sauce with the unexpected addition of white chocolate. Typically, it features cooked shrimp tossed in a creamy sauce made from butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and the white chocolate, which adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• Pasta: 1 lb of fettuccine or your preferred pasta
• Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups
• White Chocolate: ½ cup, finely chopped (or white chocolate chips)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well.
4. Gradually add the white chocolate, stirring continuously until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Combine:

1. Return the shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
3. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Tips for the Perfect White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo:

• Quality of White Chocolate: Use high-quality white chocolate for better melting and a smoother, richer flavor. Cheaper chocolates often contain more additives, which could affect the texture and taste of your sauce.
• Simmer Gently: When adding the white chocolate and cheese, keep the sauce at a low simmer to avoid separation and to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Seafood Freshness: For the best flavor and texture in any seafood dish, ensure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if previously frozen.
• Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio, which can help balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

What to serve with

Serving White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo, a dish that’s luxurious in both flavor and texture, requires thoughtful consideration to balance the palate and enhance the dining experience. The richness of the Alfredo and the unique twist of white chocolate means accompanying dishes should offer contrast in flavor, texture, and even temperature.

1. Green Salad: A fresh green salad is an essential companion to the creaminess of White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo. Opt for crisp greens like arugula, romaine, or a spring mix. Incorporate elements like sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for added crunch and freshness. A light vinaigrette dressing, perhaps lemon-based, will cut through the richness of the Alfredo without overpowering it.

2. Steamed or Grilled Vegetables: Brighten up your plate with a side of steamed or grilled vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make excellent choices, offering a slight crunch and a bit of bitterness or earthiness to contrast the creamy, sweet notes of the pasta. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of salt are all you need to enhance their natural flavors.

3. Garlic Bread: A meal featuring pasta almost demands garlic bread. The crisp exterior and soft, flavorful interior of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any remaining Alfredo sauce on your plate. Go for a traditional garlic butter preparation, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and herbs to the top before baking for an extra flavor dimension.

4. Roasted or Sautéed Mushrooms: Mushrooms have an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp and pasta dishes. Roasting or sautéing them until they’re caramelized deepens their taste and provides a lovely texture contrast to the creamy pasta—season with garlic, thyme, or rosemary to complement the flavors in your Alfredo sauce.

5. Zesty Lemon Quinoa: For those looking to add some grains to the meal but wanting to avoid the heaviness of additional pasta or bread, quinoa makes a fantastic side. Its light texture and nutty flavor make it versatile, but try adding lemon zest and juice, along with a handful of chopped parsley or cilantro, to give it a fresh, vibrant twist that will balance the richness of the Alfredo.

6. Chilled Seafood Salad: A cold seafood salad, made with ingredients like crab, lobster, or additional shrimp, dressed in a light vinaigrette with fresh herbs, offers a refreshing contrast to the warm and creamy main dish. It’s also a wonderful way to stick with the seafood theme.

7. Wine Pairing: The right wine can act as a side, enhancing the flavors of the meal. For White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo, a crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can cut through the richness of the dish while complementing the seafood. If you prefer red wine, choose a light-bodied variety like Pinot Noir that won’t overwhelm the delicate flavors of the sauce and shrimp.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo involves a delightful yet unusual combination of ingredients. If you find yourself missing an item or catering to specific dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make without sacrificing taste or quality.

For Shrimp

• Chicken is a common substitute for shrimp, especially for those allergic to shellfish. Chicken breast, cut into small pieces and sautéed, can mimic the protein component of the dish while providing a different texture and flavor.
• Scallops or Crab Meat: For a seafood alternative, scallops or lump crab meat can provide a similar texture and sweetness to shrimp.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, firm tofu can be pan-seared or baked until slightly crispy. Marinate it in soy sauce and lemon juice to add more flavor.

For White Chocolate

• Cream Cheese: If the thought of white chocolate in a savory sauce doesn’t appeal to you or if you’re simply out of it, use cream cheese. It will contribute to the creamy texture and add a bit of tanginess.
• Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free and vegan alternative, coconut cream can replace white chocolate. It offers a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, and it pairs nicely with the flavors of the dish.

For Heavy Cream

• Full-fat Coconut Milk: A great vegan substitute for heavy cream, coconut milk will add creaminess without dairy.
• Evaporated Milk: If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, evaporated milk can replace heavy cream. It won’t be as rich, but it will still add a creamy texture.
• Cashew Cream: For another dairy-free option, blend soaked cashews with water until smooth. This can provide a creamy base for the Alfredo sauce.

For Parmesan Cheese

• Nutritional Yeast: For a vegan swap, nutritional yeast can be used. It offers a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
• Asiago or Pecorino Romano: If you’re out of Parmesan but have other hard cheeses on hand, they can work in a pinch. They offer a similar texture and salty, umami flavor.

For Pasta

• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb or gluten-free option, zucchini noodles can replace traditional pasta.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: These can be used for those with dietary restrictions or preferences while still providing the base for the sauce and shrimp.

For Butter

• Margarine: A straightforward substitute for butter if you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative. It can be used in equal amounts.
• Olive Oil: If you prefer a healthier fat, olive oil can be used. It changes the flavor profile slightly but works well with Italian cuisine.

Final Thoughts

When serving a bold and opulent dish like White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo, the goal of your side dishes should be to complement and contrast, ensuring a delightful meal with a diversity of tastes and textures. 

More Chocolate Recipes:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Soufflé