Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of tender shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce that will have you swooning at the first bite. This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dish that earns its name, promising flavors so irresistible it might just lead to a proposal!

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a quest to recreate a restaurant-quality pasta at home. With its luxurious sauce and just the right amount of heat, it quickly became a go-to for date nights or whenever I wanted to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe deserves a place in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this standout pasta dish. From its flavor-packed sauce to its simple preparation, this recipe checks all the boxes.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this dish comes together effortlessly.

Next, it’s packed with bold flavors. The creamy tomato base, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of spice, perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of shrimp.

It’s also impressive yet approachable, making it ideal for special occasions or romantic dinners at home. You don’t need to be a chef to pull this off, but it tastes like something straight out of a five-star restaurant.

Finally, this recipe is adaptable to your preferences. Whether you want to add a handful of spinach, swap the shrimp for chicken, or use gluten-free pasta, the possibilities are endless.

So, let’s gather those ingredients and get started!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters.

• Shrimp: Go for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Fresh or frozen both work well, but make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Their natural sweetness shines in the creamy sauce.
• Pasta: I recommend linguine or fettuccine for their ability to hold onto the sauce beautifully. However, penne or spaghetti are great substitutes.
• Heavy Cream: This is the key to the sauce’s luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the creaminess will be slightly reduced.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich, tangy depth of flavor. Look for the kind packed in oil for the best taste and texture.
• Garlic and Onion: Together, they create a savory base that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a savory, slightly salty backbone to balance the creaminess of the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a nutty, salty finish to the dish. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch provides a gentle heat that elevates the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Special equipment: A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all you need to make this recipe come together seamlessly.

How to Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this irresistible pasta dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof result every time.

1. Cook the Pasta
   Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
   Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
   In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy
   Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve
   Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish and Garnish
   Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and savor every bite.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing.
• Freezer: While the creamy sauce doesn’t freeze as well as tomato-based sauces, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid separation.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Shrimp: Replace the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a different take.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Spice it Up: Amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
• Try a Different Pasta: Experiment with gluten-free pasta or zoodles for a lower-carb version.

This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a showstopper that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, this dish promises love at first bite. Enjoy!

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