Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines succulent shrimp with a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This pasta is packed with bold flavors, featuring garlic, parmesan, and a touch of spice that make it utterly irresistible. It’s the perfect dish for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or when you simply crave a restaurant-quality meal at home. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s called Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—it’s love at first taste!

The first time I made this dish, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone into the kitchen. The combination of tender shrimp, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmony of flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting. The slight tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes balances the richness of the cream, while red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat.

What makes this pasta even better is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a single pan, you can whip up an impressive meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression!

Perfect for:

• Date nights
• Special occasions
• Comfort food cravings
• Impressing guests
• Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Here’s why Marry Me Shrimp Pasta will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Creamy and Indulgent: The rich sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan creates a luxurious texture.
• Savory with a Hint of Spice: Sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes add depth and a touch of heat.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: The combination of flavors rivals any high-end Italian restaurant dish.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta shape, adjust the spice level, or add vegetables for variety.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 35g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; they cook quickly and add a juicy, meaty texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These provide a concentrated, slightly tangy sweetness that enhances the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth, umami, and a creamy texture to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A subtle heat that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Basil: Fresh basil brightens the flavors and adds a fragrant, herby touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Cook the Shrimp:

3. Sauté Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

4. Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Italian Seasoning: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
7. Pour in Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing the sauce to simmer gently.
8. Melt Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.

Assemble the Dish:

9. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the drained pasta and cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
10. Finish with Basil and Lemon Juice: Stir in fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and can be served in various ways:

• With Garlic Bread: A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Paired with a Salad: A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
• With a Glass of Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully.
• For a Romantic Dinner: Serve with candlelight and soft music for a special meal.
• Wine Pairing – Serve alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to enhance the flavors.
• As a Date Night Dish – Plate elegantly with a sprig of thyme, a drizzle of olive oil, and candlelight for a romantic dinner.
• Creamy Cajun Twist – Add a side of Cajun-spiced shrimp or grilled chicken for extra heat and protein.
• With Crusty Bread Bowls – Hollow out small bread loaves and serve the pasta inside for a unique and hearty presentation.

Additional Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Follow these tips to ensure your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta turns out perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Shrimp – Opt for fresh, deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a bit of pasta water helps thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or increase the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Add Greens: Toss in spinach or arugula for a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
• Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less cheese for a lighter version.
• Sear the Shrimp Properly – Cook shrimp in a single layer over medium-high heat for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Overcooking will make them rubbery.

Recipe Variations for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Try these 10 variations to customize your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta:

• Chicken Marry Me Pasta: Swap shrimp for chicken breast slices.
• Lobster Marry Me Pasta: Elevate the dish with lobster meat for a luxurious twist.
• Spicy Marry Me Pasta: Increase red pepper flakes or add diced chili peppers.
• Mushroom Marry Me Pasta: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy addition.
• Vegetable Marry Me Pasta: Toss in roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Bacon Marry Me Pasta: Add crispy bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Vegan Marry Me Pasta: Use plant-based cream, veggie broth, and tofu or chickpeas instead of shrimp.
• Gluten-Free Marry Me Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Lemon Butter Marry Me Pasta: Add extra lemon juice and zest for a citrusy variation.
• Cheesy Marry Me Pasta: Stir in shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy, gooey sauce.

Freezing and Storage for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months; however, it’s best to cook fresh pasta and shrimp when serving.

Special Equipment for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To make preparing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta easier, consider these tools:

• Large Skillet: A deep skillet ensures the sauce and pasta combine well.
• Tongs: Helps toss and coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
• Microplane/Zester: For grating parmesan and zesting lemon.
• Colander: Drains pasta efficiently while reserving pasta water.

Frequently Asked Questions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, thaw them first and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
   Yes, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option.
4. What type of pasta works best?
   Linguine, fettuccine, or penne hold the sauce well.
5. Can I make this less spicy?
   Yes, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

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Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is packed with savory goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

The best part? It’s easy to make yet tastes like a restaurant-quality dish. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s bound to become a favorite.

I’d love to see how your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation. Happy cooking!