Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate combination of creamy decadence and bold flavors with this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. A luscious sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan coats perfectly cooked shrimp and tender pasta for a dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or just treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a flavorful experience. Here’s why this dish is a must-try:

• Perfect for Special Occasions: The luxurious, creamy sauce and tender shrimp make it a showstopper for date nights or dinner parties.
• Easy Yet Elegant: Despite its restaurant-quality presentation, the recipe is surprisingly simple and comes together in under an hour.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan creates a savory, tangy, and rich sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Customizable: You can tailor this recipe to suit various dietary preferences or mix in additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for extra flair.
• One-Pan Sauce: The creamy, flavor-packed sauce comes together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

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Ingredients

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh basil
• Pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)

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Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add Heat and Herbs: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Add fresh basil leaves to enhance the aroma and flavor.
6. Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is well combined. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the shrimp and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without compromising flavor.
• Lighter Option: Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a lower-calorie version.
• Protein Substitutes: Substitute the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even salmon for a different protein twist.
• Add Veggies: Include steamed broccoli, roasted cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.

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Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

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Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the shrimp and cause the sauce to separate.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

2. What pasta works best with this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are excellent choices as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately from the pasta. Combine and reheat just before serving.

5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese can be used as a substitute for heavy cream.

6. Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! Deglaze the skillet with ½ cup of white wine after sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream. Keep it at a gentle simmer and stir continuously.

8. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add the pre-cooked shrimp at the very end to warm them through without overcooking.

9. What herbs can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil, parsley, or Italian seasoning can be used in place of fresh basil.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

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Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the perfect marriage of rich flavors, creamy textures, and easy preparation. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its vibrant ingredients and customizable options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Treat yourself or impress your loved ones by bringing this irresistible pasta dish to the table—you won’t regret it!

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