Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that will leave a lasting impression, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the one. This creamy, garlicky, and utterly indulgent pasta combines succulent shrimp with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, kissed with sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of spice. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Yet Elegant – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like it took hours.
• Rich and Creamy – The luscious Parmesan and heavy cream sauce make every bite heavenly.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – Whether it’s date night or a celebratory dinner, this dish feels luxurious.
• Customizable – You can easily swap out ingredients to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 400g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 300g fettuccine
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or a spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, whisk gently, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.

5. Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta, making sure every serving has a generous amount of shrimp. Sprinkle fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy immediately!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the Parmesan cheese slightly.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for an extra kick.
• Swap the Protein: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or even salmon.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a plant-based alternative.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, buy fresh shrimp instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Balance the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, use reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce thickens upon standing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, then warm gently over low heat. Avoid microwaving on high, as this can cause the shrimp to become rubbery.

What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh arugula or Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta.
• White Wine – A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance. Store separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. You can also add a little more Parmesan cheese.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a large skillet to accommodate the extra portions.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate dish for special occasions or whenever you want to impress someone with a home-cooked meal. Its creamy, garlicky, and slightly spicy flavors make it irresistible, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

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