Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's something irresistible about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, with its luscious, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and pasta swirled together in a symphony of flavors. It’s a dish that truly lives up to its name—so good, it might just inspire a proposal!

this Recipe

I first made this dish for a special anniversary dinner, hoping to impress my partner with something indulgent yet easy to make. It was love at first bite, and now it’s a go-to recipe for date nights or anytime I want to bring a little romance to the table. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to swoon over this decadent dish! Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal—it’s an experience you’ll want to savor again and again.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both last-minute date nights and busy weeknights when you want something special.

Second, the flavors are unbeatable. With tender, juicy shrimp, a creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly al dente pasta, every bite is a burst of pure joy.

This dish is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you prefer fettuccine, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. From picky eaters to seafood lovers, everyone will be raving about this meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread, and you’ve got a dinner worthy of celebration.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this dish shine.

• Shrimp: The star of the show! I recommend using large, deveined shrimp. Fresh or frozen works fine, but if frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Pasta: Fettuccine is a classic choice for this recipe, but spaghetti or linguine work just as well. The key is to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up beautifully in the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems add a pop of tangy sweetness and a hint of umami. Look for ones packed in oil for the best flavor.
• Heavy cream: The base of the sauce, heavy cream creates that rich, silky texture that’s absolutely irresistible. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable here. It melts beautifully into the sauce, adding depth and creaminess.
• Garlic and onion: These aromatic staples lay the foundation of flavor, infusing the dish with savory notes that complement the shrimp and sauce perfectly.

You’ll also need olive oil, butter, chicken broth, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are the only tools required.

How To Make This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this elegant dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof Marry Me Shrimp Pasta that’ll wow every time.

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Sear the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a mix of olive oil and butter, then toss in the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
4. Make it creamy: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, then add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth.
5. Combine everything: Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring each strand of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Finish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot, and watch everyone fall in love at first bite!

This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stores beautifully with a few simple steps.

• Refrigeration: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it just as delicious the next day.
• Freezing: While the sauce might lose some of its creaminess after freezing, you can still freeze this dish. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its versatility. Here are some ideas to customize this dish to your liking:

• Protein swaps: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it out for chicken, scallops, or even salmon for a different twist.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and zucchini.
• Spice it up: Crank up the heat with extra red pepper flakes, or drizzle in a bit of chili oil for a spicy kick.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan for a lower-calorie option.
• Gluten-free alternative: Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just be sure to cook it slightly less to prevent breaking during tossing.

Experiment with these ideas, and don’t be afraid to make this dish your own. Every version will be just as delicious as the original!

With its irresistible flavors and elegant presentation, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Bon appétit!

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