Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to impress, look no further than Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This creamy, flavorful pasta combines tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce for a meal that feels fancy yet comes together in just 30 minutes.

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The name says it all—this dish is so irresistibly delicious that it might just inspire a proposal (or at least some serious compliments). I first made this pasta for a date night at home, and it’s been a go-to ever since for special occasions or whenever I want to treat myself. Ready to fall in love with your next favorite recipe? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to add this dish to your repertoire of show-stopping meals. Here’s why:

• Romantic and Indulgent: The creamy, dreamy sauce paired with juicy shrimp makes this the perfect date-night dish.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its elegant presentation, this pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Packed with Flavor: The sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan create a rich, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and pasta.
• Customizable: You can easily swap the protein or add veggies to make it your own while keeping the irresistible base intact.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish stand out:

• Shrimp: Large, raw shrimp are best for this recipe. Look for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time, and keep the tails on or off based on preference.
• Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti works perfectly, but any long pasta will do. Choose your favorite!
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture.
• Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the rich, velvety sauce. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds nutty, salty richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes that complement the shrimp beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: Helps thin the sauce while adding depth. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but highly recommended for a subtle kick of heat.

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish is surprisingly simple to make. Follow these steps for a restaurant-quality meal at home:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta of choice until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the chicken broth and let it simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Parmesan and Shrimp: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce and shrimp. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately and savor the creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.

Storage Options

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers with these tips:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
• Freezing: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a couple of days.

Variations and Substitutions

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Use chicken, scallops, or even salmon instead of shrimp for a new take on the dish.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil for extra heat.
• Use Different Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or Gruyère for a creamy twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a surefire way to impress, whether you’re cooking for a romantic evening, hosting friends, or simply indulging yourself. The creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and bold flavors make every bite unforgettable. Give this recipe a try tonight—you might just fall in love!

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