There's nothing quite like the luxurious aroma of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta filling your kitchen on a cozy evening. This dish combines plump, juicy shrimp with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, perfectly coating every strand of pasta in pure indulgence.
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I discovered this recipe on a date night, and it's been a favorite ever since. The blend of bold flavors, elegant presentation, and quick preparation makes it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly special. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Prepare to fall head over heels for this irresistible dish! Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes, and it’s loaded with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Whether you're a busy parent or planning a romantic dinner, this recipe comes together in no time. From start to finish, you’ll have it ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, is perfectly balanced with tender shrimp and al dente pasta.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While elegant enough for special nights, it’s also simple and comforting, making it ideal for a weeknight treat.
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or even make it gluten-free with the right pasta.
Once you try this, you’ll see why it’s called "Marry Me" pasta—it’s love at first bite!
Ingredients Notes
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The beauty of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its blend of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating this flavorful masterpiece.
- Shrimp: Look for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for convenience. Fresh or frozen both work well, but if using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are the stars of the sauce, adding a slightly tangy sweetness. Opt for the ones packed in oil—they’re softer and more flavorful.
- Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable for that nutty, umami kick. Avoid pre-grated cheese as it may not melt smoothly.
- Pasta: Use long pasta like spaghetti or linguine for the best texture. These shapes cling to the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Optional Equipment: A large skillet and a good microplane for grating Parmesan make this recipe even easier to execute!
How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Creating this stunning dish is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to achieve perfection.
- Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid will help thicken the sauce later. - Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, until they’re pink and opaque. Remove and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes, letting the mixture simmer gently. - Combine Everything
Add the grated Parmesan to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat every strand. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it. - Add the Shrimp
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Total time? Just 25-30 minutes, with minimal cleanup!
Storage Options
Have leftovers? No problem! This pasta is just as delicious the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While the pasta can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat gently with a splash of cream.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s texture.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is!
- Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley make a great garnish for added freshness.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of pasta for a lighter version.
Don’t be afraid to experiment—this recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity!
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or just craving something special, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is guaranteed to impress. The balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors makes this dish unforgettable. Try it tonight, and prepare for everyone at the table to fall in love!
PrintCreamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a romantic, savory dish featuring shrimp, garlic, and pasta in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for special occasions!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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