Dreamy “Marry Me” Shrimp Pasta Recipe: Love at First Bite

Creamy, decadent marry me shrimp pasta promises a culinary love story on your plate.

Seafood enthusiasts recognize this dish as a romantic game-changer that sparks instant connection.

Tender shrimp nestled in a velvety sauce creates magic with every bite.

Each forkful delivers rich, harmonious flavors that dance between comfort and elegance.

Garlic, butter, and fresh herbs weave an irresistible narrative of deliciousness.

Weeknight dinners or special occasions become extraordinary with this simple yet impressive recipe.

You won’t be able to resist falling head over heels for this incredible pasta.

Fun Twists on Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Creamy Cajun Kick: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spice blend, adding andouille sausage for extra heat and smoky flavor.
• Mediterranean Medley: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with kalamata olives, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle with fresh oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
• Veggie Lover's Pasta: Substitute shrimp with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and artichoke hearts, using vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.
• Coconut Curry Fusion: Incorporate coconut milk instead of heavy cream, add curry powder, and top with chopped cilantro for an exotic Southeast Asian-inspired dish.

Pairings That Work Well with Marry Me Pasta

• Savor Flavor-Packed Wine Pairing: A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay perfectly complements the creamy sauce and highlights the shrimp's delicate sweetness, cutting through the richness with its bright acidity.
• Elevate with Herb-Friendly Garnish: Fresh basil not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a vibrant, aromatic layer that enhances the dish's Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Match with Crusty Bread Companion: A warm, rustic baguette becomes the ideal sidekick, allowing diners to soak up the luxurious sauce and transform the pasta into an interactive dining experience.

Best Way to Store Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed thoroughly.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently to distribute heat evenly.

FAQs

• Is this pasta dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

• Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper seasoning and a nice sear.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

• How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque, which typically takes 1-2 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta That Will Impress Everyone

• Quickly Customize: Adapt the pasta with your favorite protein or make it vegetarian by swapping shrimp with grilled vegetables or tofu.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Packed with creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy notes that appeal to diverse taste preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or gathering with friends.
• Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Create a luxurious restaurant-style dish without complicated techniques, using simple ingredients and basic cooking skills that even beginner cooks can master.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-skillet recipe that streamlines cooking process and reduces dish washing, allowing more time to enjoy your delicious meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Pasta: A classic base that provides hearty texture and substance to the dish.

• Shrimp: A succulent seafood that adds delicate flavor and tender protein to the recipe.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika, Garlic Powder: Essential spices that enhance and balance the shrimp's natural taste.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Rich ingredients that create a smooth, flavorful foundation for the sauce.
• Garlic: A fragrant ingredient that adds depth and aromatic complexity.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sweet and concentrated tomato pieces that bring intense flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A spicy component that introduces a gentle heat.

• Chicken Broth, Wine: Flavorful liquids that provide moisture and depth to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: A rich ingredient that creates a smooth and luxurious sauce texture.
• Lemon Juice: A bright acidic element that balances and lightens the creamy sauce.

• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that adds richness and complexity.
• Italian Seasoning, Basil: Aromatic herbs that contribute fresh and traditional Mediterranean flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Drop your pasta into the bubbling water and cook according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta but save a little bit of the starchy water – this secret weapon will help your sauce later.

Set the pasta aside while you work your magic.

Step 2: Sizzle the Shrimp

Pat those shrimp dry with a paper towel.

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder

Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the seasoned shrimp and cook them quickly, about 1-2 minutes on each side.

You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and look opaque. Scoop them out and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Dreamy Sauce

• Minced garlic
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Red pepper flakes

Sauté for a minute to release those incredible aromas. Pour in chicken broth or white wine and let it simmer.

Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir until everything blends into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes and taste to adjust the seasoning.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Combine the cooked pasta and sizzling shrimp with the luxurious sauce.

Toss everything until each strand of pasta is beautifully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve immediately, sprinkled with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Watch as everyone falls in love with this dish!

Tips to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Every Time

• Remove excess moisture from shrimp using paper towels to ensure crispy, golden-brown edges when sautéing.
• Reserve some starchy pasta water to help thicken and smooth out the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to noodles.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level – use less for mild flavor or more for a spicy kick that tingles your taste buds.
• If sauce breaks or looks separated, whisk in a small amount of cold butter to restore smooth, creamy consistency instantly.
• Replace shrimp with chicken or plant-based alternatives like tofu for a versatile dish that suits different dietary preferences.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta That Youll Follow Recipe

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4.6 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Romantic marry me shrimp pasta promises a culinary love story with creamy garlic sauce and perfectly seasoned jumbo shrimp. Quick, indulgent flavors will sweep you off your feet and into a delightful dinner that seals the deal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (8 oz) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, immersing pasta until perfectly al dente. Drain thoroughly, preserving 1/2 cup of starchy liquid for potential sauce adjustment.
2. Meticulously pat shrimp dry, then lavishly season with aromatic spices. Sear in sizzling olive oil over medium-high heat until transforming into a vibrant pink hue, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Temporarily relocate protein to a waiting plate.
3. Utilize the same skillet to create a fragrant foundation, melting butter and introducing minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fiery red pepper flakes. Allow aromatics to dance for one minute before deglazing with robust chicken broth.
4. Incorporate heavy cream, grated Parmesan, herbaceous Italian seasoning, delicate basil, and bright lemon juice. Whisk continuously until achieving a velvety, harmonious consistency. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, tasting and fine-tuning seasoning as desired.
5. Reunite pasta and succulent shrimp with the luxurious sauce, ensuring every morsel is gracefully coated. If sauce appears too thick, gradually introduce reserved pasta water to create perfect silkiness.
6. Elegantly plate the dish, garnishing with additional Parmesan shavings and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while temperature and flavors remain at their peak.

Notes

• Choose medium-sized, deveined shrimp for quick cooking and tender texture.
• Let shrimp sit with seasonings for 5-10 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor absorption.
• Control thickness by gradually adding pasta water, ensuring a silky smooth coating.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free alternative that maintains creamy richness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 475 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 670 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg