Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There’s something undeniably special about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—a dish that’s as enchanting as its name. Imagine twirling forkfuls of tender pasta coated in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce, with succulent shrimp stealing the show in every bite.

I first made this dish as a romantic surprise for my partner, and it’s safe to say the results were magical! Quick, indulgent, and restaurant-quality, this recipe has become a staple for date nights and dinner parties alike.

Ready to discover why they call it "Marry Me" Shrimp Pasta? Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This recipe isn't just another pasta dish; it’s a showstopper. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this pasta has you covered.

It’s decadently delicious. The rich, creamy sauce is balanced by the tang of sun-dried tomatoes, the savory depth of garlic, and the brininess of perfectly cooked shrimp. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.

Quick and easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it took hours of effort. Perfect for when time is short but expectations are high!

Elegant enough for any occasion. Whether you’re wooing a new love, celebrating an anniversary, or impressing guests, this dish looks and tastes like a 5-star experience.

Customizable to your tastes. Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it for chicken or keep it vegetarian with mushrooms. You can also tweak the spice level to suit your preference.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder people are calling this the pasta that inspires lifelong commitments. Now, let’s explore what makes it so magical.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe’s beauty lies in its simple yet luxurious ingredients, each bringing its own unique flair. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp – The star of the dish! Opt for large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Fresh or frozen works well; just make sure to pat them dry before cooking for a perfect sear.

Pasta – Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti all work beautifully. The long noodles pair perfectly with the creamy sauce, allowing you to twirl up all that deliciousness.

Sun-dried tomatoes – These add a tangy, slightly sweet kick that sets this pasta apart. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.

Heavy cream – The base of the sauce, heavy cream creates that luscious, velvety texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though it won’t be quite as rich.

Garlic and shallots – This aromatic duo forms the flavor foundation of the dish. The garlic brings boldness, while the shallots add a subtle sweetness.

Parmesan cheese – Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results. It melts seamlessly into the sauce, adding a nutty, savory depth.

Red pepper flakes – A pinch of spice balances the creamy sauce, but you can adjust the amount to your heat preference.

White wine – Optional but highly recommended! It deglazes the pan and adds a subtle acidity that enhances the other flavors.

Special equipment – A large skillet is essential to fit all your shrimp and sauce, while a pasta pot will make boiling and draining noodles a breeze.

How To Make This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Cooking this dish is straightforward, but the results are anything but ordinary. Here’s how to make it step by step:

1. Cook the pasta. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sear the shrimp. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add diced shallots and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Deglaze and build the sauce. Pour in white wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Next, stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently, thickening slightly.
5. Combine everything. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and toss to combine.
6. Serve and garnish. Plate the pasta, then top with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color and heat.

In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing: While the pasta and shrimp can be frozen, the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed. For best results, freeze only the shrimp and sauce; cook fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating: Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as it can become rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a twist.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts for a veggie-forward version.
• Spice level: Dial up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. Alternatively, leave it out for a milder dish.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising on taste.
• Cheese upgrade: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor profile.

No matter how you tweak it, this pasta is bound to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish worth proposing over!

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