You know that feeling when a dish just wraps you in comfort and romance? That’s exactly what you get with my Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This creamy delight combines plump shrimp with a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, elevating pasta night into something truly special. What’s better? It’s not just a recipe reserved for special occasions; it’s a quick dinner that transforms an ordinary evening into something magical. Plus, with an optional dairy-free version, this dish caters to all palates, ensuring everyone can indulge in its irresistible charm. Are you ready to whip up a meal that might just change your dinner game forever? Let’s dive into this culinary love story!
Why You’ll Adore This Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Irresistibly Creamy: The luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce envelops each shrimp and pasta strand, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any night.
Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Versatile Options: Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken to fit your preferences, or even explore a dairy-free option with coconut cream!
Romantic Appeal: This dish is guaranteed to impress on date nights and special occasions alike—nothing quite says “I love you” like homemade pasta!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes ensures a delightful balance, making it a hit with all types of eaters. Pair it with a side salad or some delicious homemade garlic bread for a complete meal, just like with my Garlic Butter Pasta or Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice.
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this amazing dish!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Linguine or Fettuccine – 10 oz; choose pasta that holds sauce well for an amazing bite.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – 1 lb large, peeled and deveined; ensure freshness for the best seafood flavor.
• Olive Oil – 2 tbsp; essential for sautéing the shrimp, ensuring a nice golden color.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; fresh garlic intensifies the dish’s aromatic profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes – 1/2 tsp; adjust to taste for that perfect kick of heat.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – 1/2 cup, chopped; these add a fantastic tangy sweetness to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – 1 cup (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option); provides the creamy base that transforms this dish.
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, freshly grated; you’ll want fresh for the best flavor and melting quality.
• Chicken Broth or White Wine – 1/2 cup; enhances the depth of the sauce and ties all the flavors together.
• Butter – 2 tbsp; for richness and a luxurious gloss to the creamy sauce.
For Garnish
• Fresh Basil – 1 tbsp, chopped; adds a pop of color and fresh delight when sprinkled on top.
Dig into this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta recipe, and prepare to be dazzled by the symphony of flavors!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 10 oz of linguine or fettuccine and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles. Keep the pasta warm in the pot while you prepare the shrimp and sauce to ensure it stays flavorful and retains heat.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 3 minced garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally until the shrimp transform to a beautiful pink and opaque color. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted. Incorporate ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ½ cup of chicken broth or white wine, stirring well. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the pan, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut cream) and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Reduce heat to low and return the sautéed shrimp back to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the reserved pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water, mixing everything together for about 1 minute to marry the flavors and heat through. The creamy sauce should cling beautifully to the pasta and shrimp, creating a luscious texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Spoon the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta onto plates, making sure to include an even mix of shrimp and pasta. Finish with a sprinkling of freshly chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for an inviting presentation. Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad to complete this heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Storage Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave Marry Me Shrimp Pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
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Freezer: You can freeze the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
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Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently heat in a skillet on low, adding a little reserved pasta water or cream to restore creaminess as needed.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your dinner experience with simple yet delicious sides that enhance this creamy pasta’s romance.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, making every bite even more indulgent.
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Fresh Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a refreshing contrast, brightening the entire meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: A light and crunchy vegetable option, asparagus adds a beautiful color and a snap that complements the creamy textures delightfully.
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Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweet, caramelized flavor balances the richness of the dish beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
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White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing and bubbly drink to sip as you dine, it cuts through the creaminess and enhances the dish’s romantic feel.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a delightful finish with its rich coffee and cocoa-infused flavor, perfectly wrapping up your meal.
Let these pairings create a full meal experience that captures the heart!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor impact. Fresh ingredients elevate the creamy sauce to new heights!
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Sear Wisely: Ensure your shrimp are patted dry before searing. This prevents steaming and helps achieve that beautiful, golden color you desire.
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Gentle Simmer: Keep the sauce on low heat and avoid boiling to prevent curdling. You want a luscious, creamy texture in your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water! A splash will help loosen the sauce when mixing, creating the perfect balance of creaminess.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the red pepper flakes to your taste. Start with a small amount and add more for a spicier kick—or omit them for family-friendly dining!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can make the creamy sauce ahead of time, refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply prepare the sauce by combining the sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan, allowing it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. You can sauté the shrimp and cook the pasta fresh just before serving to ensure everything retains its ideal texture. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, then toss in the cooked shrimp and pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. This way, you’ll have a delectable meal ready with minimal effort!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to play around with these variations and tailor the dish to your liking!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a luxurious twist or use chicken for a hearty alternative. Each protein brings its charm, making the dish uniquely delicious.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or oat cream instead of heavy cream to create a silky, dairy-free sauce. It retains the creaminess while being friendly on the tummy.
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Veggie Boost: Add vibrant vegetables like baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and freshness. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also packs in more nutrients.
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Extra Spicy: Incorporate Cajun seasoning for a bigger kick. This spice blend can elevate the dish, giving it a zesty, southern flair that’s hard to resist.
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Add Nuts: Toss in toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for delightful texture and crunch. The nutty flavor works beautifully with the creamy sauce, adding another layer of indulgence.
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Herb Infusion: Swap basil with fresh parsley or cilantro, or even add a sprinkle of dill for a different herbaceous note. Fresh herbs can transform the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.
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Zesty Lemon Punch: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The acidity cuts through richness and makes the dish feel fresh and lively.
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Mushroom Magic: Introduce sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. They complement the shrimp wonderfully and will satisfy even the most ardent mushroom lovers.
Whether you’re looking to retain that romantic touch or simply shake up your routine, these variations allow for creativity and customization. Speaking of great flavor, don’t forget to check out my Crock Pot Pasta for another delightful dish that enlivens your dinner table!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! For best results, use large, fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp will enhance the seafood flavor, but if fresh is unavailable, high-quality frozen shrimp will work well too. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to help maintain that creamy texture. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
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Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently, adding a bit of reserved pasta water or cream for creaminess as needed.
What if my sauce is too thick when making the pasta?
Very easily fixed! If your sauce becomes too thick, just stir in a little of the reserved pasta water or some additional cream until you reach your desired consistency. This will help loosen the sauce while maintaining its creamy integrity.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Absolutely, you can adapt the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to be dairy-free! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy alternative and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese instead of Parmesan for that rich flavor. Remember to check labels to ensure all ingredients are allergy-friendly.
How can I ensure my shrimp are perfectly cooked?
To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, look for them to turn pink and opaque in color, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes when sautéing. Make sure they’re patted dry before cooking to prevent steaming, which can lead to rubbery shrimp. Tossing them gently ensures even cooking!
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Dish to Win Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 10 oz of linguine or fettuccine and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles. Keep the pasta warm in the pot.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted. Incorporate ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ½ cup of chicken broth or white wine, stirring well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reduce heat to low, return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet, and toss gently to coat. Add the reserved pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water, mixing for about 1 minute to marry the flavors.
- Spoon the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta onto plates, including an even mix of shrimp and pasta. Finish with chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan for presentation. Add a side of garlic bread or salad if desired.
