Step 1: Cook Pasta : Boil a large pot of salted water and cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 2: Sauté Shrimp : Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Alfredo Sauce : In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp : Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in Alfredo sauce. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.

Step 5: Serve : Plate the pasta and shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.