Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie Recipe: A Creamy Shrimp Pasta Delight -

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, then Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie is likely a favorite. This signature dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill combines tender shrimp with a rich Alfredo sauce, garlic, mushrooms, and fettuccine pasta, creating a dish that is indulgent, flavorful, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a special occasion, even if you’re just enjoying it on a weeknight.

Fortunately, you don’t have to dine out to experience the joy of Pasta Weesie. With a few key ingredients and some simple techniques, you can recreate this beloved restaurant dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for family, friends, or just yourself, this homemade version of Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie is sure to impress.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process. Additionally, we’ll share tips for making variations of the dish, suggestions for serving, and helpful storage tips in case you have leftovers. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to make restaurant-quality Pasta Weesie at home with confidence.

Ingredients for Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all of the necessary ingredients. You don’t need anything overly complicated, but the combination of fresh shrimp, garlic, cream, and Parmesan is what makes this dish truly delicious. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this recipe:

I- For the Alfredo Sauce:

Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (a key ingredient for that rich, creamy texture)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce)
Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream (for the rich, creamy consistency that makes Alfredo so irresistible)
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (adds the essential savory, nutty flavor)
Salt and Pepper: To taste (to balance and enhance the flavors)

II- For the Shrimp:

Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (the star of the dish, make sure to use fresh or thawed shrimp)
Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (to sauté the shrimp and mushrooms)
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (to prevent the butter from burning)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (for an extra burst of flavor when sautéing the shrimp)
Mushrooms: 1 cup of sliced white mushrooms (adds an earthy, meaty flavor to the dish)
White Wine: 1/4 cup of white wine (deglazes the pan and adds acidity to balance the richness of the sauce)
Lemon Juice: Juice from half a lemon (adds brightness and enhances the flavor of the shrimp)
Green Onions: 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (also known as scallions, these provide a fresh, mild onion flavor)
Salt and Pepper: To taste (season the shrimp for optimal flavor)

III- For the Pasta:

Fettuccine Pasta: 12 ounces (classic for Alfredo dishes, but you can use any pasta shape you like)
Salt: For the pasta water (salting the pasta water is essential for seasoning the pasta as it cooks)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making Pasta Weesie from start to finish. By following these instructions, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and savory mushrooms.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First, let’s start by preparing the pasta. It’s important to cook the pasta properly so that it complements the rich, creamy sauce.

Boil the Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Remember, using enough salt is key—about 1 tablespoon per 4 quarts of water ensures the pasta is well-seasoned.
Cook the Fettuccine: Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes 10-12 minutes. Al dente pasta has a slightly firm texture, making it perfect for holding onto the sauce. If you’re unsure about the perfect al dente texture, this guide can help.
Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. If you’d like, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the noodles to prevent them from sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Now, let’s move on to making the Alfredo sauce. This creamy sauce is what brings the entire dish together, and it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch.

Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Butter is essential to the richness of the sauce, so don’t skimp on this step.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic—you’re looking for a fragrant, light golden color.
Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly as it comes to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about 3-4 minutes, which will help thicken the sauce. The key here is to let the cream reduce slightly, which will concentrate its flavor.
Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Parmesan is what gives Alfredo its signature flavor, so make sure to use good-quality cheese. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Learn more about authentic Parmesan and why it’s so important for this dish.
Keep Warm: Once the sauce is thickened and creamy, reduce the heat to low and keep it warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

While your Alfredo sauce is keeping warm, it’s time to sauté the shrimp. Cooking the shrimp properly is crucial to achieving a tender, juicy bite in every forkful.

Heat the Butter and Olive Oil: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. The combination of butter and olive oil adds richness while preventing the butter from burning.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown. The mushrooms will soak up the garlic and butter, adding a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to reduce for about 1-2 minutes. This will not only enhance the flavor of the dish but also add a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the cream sauce.
Add Lemon Juice and Green Onions: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped green onions. The lemon juice brightens up the dish, while the green onions add a mild oniony flavor. Cook for another minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

With your sauce and shrimp ready, it’s time to bring everything together for the final presentation. This step is all about ensuring that every element of the dish is well-mixed and perfectly balanced.

Toss the Pasta in the Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the sauce. You want every strand of pasta to be covered in that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Add the Shrimp and Mushrooms: Return the sautéed shrimp and mushrooms to the skillet, gently mixing them into the pasta. Make sure everything is well-distributed so that each bite has a perfect balance of shrimp, mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Serve: Once everything is combined, serve the Pasta Weesie immediately. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions.

Variations of Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie

Although the traditional Pasta Weesie is already a delicious dish, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Below are several variations that you can try to put your own spin on this classic recipe:

1. Spicy Pasta Weesie:

If you love a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or seasoning the shrimp with Cajun spices. This adds a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. For an extra punch, garnish with a few slices of fresh jalapeño or crushed red pepper on top.

2. Seafood Pasta Weesie:

For seafood lovers, adding scallops, lobster, or crab meat can elevate this dish to a luxurious level. Sauté these additional seafood components just like the shrimp, and fold them into the creamy Alfredo sauce before serving. A seafood medley will make this dish feel like a true feast. Here’s a helpful guide to cooking perfect scallops if you’d like to include them in your variation.

Moreover, if you’re in the mood for more seafood inspiration, try this Crab and Shrimp Pasta for a delicious variation.

3. Vegetarian Pasta Weesie:

To make this dish vegetarian, simply skip the shrimp and instead load up the Alfredo sauce with vegetables. You can use sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichokes to add texture and flavor. For an extra savory boost, include plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or meatless sausage.

4. Gluten-Free Pasta Weesie:

If you need to follow a gluten-free diet, you can easily make this dish by swapping out the traditional fettuccine for gluten-free pasta . Many grocery stores carry high-quality gluten-free pasta options made from ingredients like rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just cook it according to the package instructions and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

You can try something a bit different with this Tomatillo Pasta Recipe for a zesty twist.

5. Low-Carb Pasta Weesie:

For a low-carb alternative, you can replace the fettuccine with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash. Both options are great for soaking up the creamy sauce while keeping the dish lighter. This variation is perfect for those looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie

Once you’ve made your delicious Pasta Weesie, consider pairing it with some complementary sides and beverages to complete the meal. Here are a few serving suggestions that can take your dining experience to the next level:

1. Garlic Bread:

A classic side, garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to any creamy pasta dish. The crispy, buttery bread is ideal for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce, ensuring that none of that rich creaminess goes to waste. You can easily make garlic bread at home by toasting slices of Italian bread with a garlic butter mixture.

2. Caprese Salad:

A simple Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil is an excellent way to balance the richness of the pasta. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for extra flavor. The acidity of the balsamic pairs wonderfully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

3. Steamed Vegetables:

If you’re looking for a healthy and light side dish, steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans work well. They provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta and add some much-needed greens to the meal. You can drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle sea salt over the veggies to enhance their flavor.

4. Caesar Salad:

A crisp Caesar salad made with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons offers a crunchy, tangy side dish that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. The combination of garlic and lemon in the Caesar dressing complements the shrimp and Alfredo sauce beautifully.

5. Wine Pairing:

When it comes to beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay pairs perfectly with Pasta Weesie. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the cream sauce, while also complementing the flavors of the shrimp and garlic. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir or Chianti can also work well with this dish.

Storage Tips for Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe you will), storing them properly will ensure that your Pasta Weesie stays fresh and delicious for the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat your dish without losing any of its creamy texture or flavor.

Refrigeration:

Store any leftover Pasta Weesie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store both the shrimp and pasta together to retain the flavor and consistency of the dish.

Freezing:

Although Alfredo sauces don’t always freeze well due to the separation of cream, you can still freeze Pasta Weesie for up to 1 month. When you thaw it, the sauce may separate slightly, but you can gently reheat it and whisk the sauce back together to restore its creamy texture.

Reheating:

To reheat Pasta Weesie, the best method is on the stovetop. Place the pasta and shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until everything is heated through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and cause the Alfredo sauce to break.

FAQs About Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie Recipe

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is the traditional choice, you can use any pasta you like. Linguine, spaghetti, or even shorter pasta like penne or rigatoni will work well with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

2. How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?

To avoid curdling, make sure you cook the Alfredo sauce over medium-low heat. High heat can cause the cream to separate, so it’s essential to cook the sauce gently. Also, add the Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and pasta ahead of time, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh right before serving. This ensures the shrimp remains tender and juicy. You can reheat the sauce gently over low heat before combining it with the freshly cooked shrimp and pasta.

4. What can I substitute for the wine in the recipe?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth makes an excellent substitute. The broth will still deglaze the pan and add flavor, without the alcohol.

5. Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?

Yes, for a lighter version of Alfredo sauce, you can use half-and-half or even milk. However, the sauce may not be as thick or rich. To add extra creaminess without the heaviness, consider using a combination of milk and a little cream cheese.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie Recipe

This homemade version of Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie captures all the indulgent flavors of the original dish, with its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and savory mushrooms. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion, date night, or simply to treat yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The rich, comforting flavors combined with the simplicity of preparation make this recipe perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

From the garlic-infused Alfredo sauce to the perfectly sautéed shrimp, every bite of this dish is packed with flavor and satisfaction. Plus, with the included variations and serving suggestions, you can customize the recipe to suit your personal tastes and dietary needs. Try making Pasta Weesie at home, and bring the flavors of Carrabba’s Italian Grill to your own table!

Carrabba’s Pasta Weesie Recipe: A Creamy Shrimp Pasta Delight