Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy, Dreamy Recipe You Can’t Resist

Introduction

If you’ve ever heard of the famous Marry Me Chicken, get ready for a seafood twist that’s just as irresistible—Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This dish features succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy sun-dried tomato sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of meal that can steal hearts with just one bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or just a comforting weeknight meal, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a game-changer. With layers of bold flavors and a velvety sauce, it’s easy to see why this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this dish and learn how to make the best version possible.

Why is it Called “Marry Me Shrimp Pasta”?

This dish gets its name from the original Marry Me Chicken, a creamy, garlic-infused dish so delicious that people joked it was good enough to make someone propose. This seafood variation swaps out chicken for juicy shrimp, keeping the luscious sauce intact while adding a briny, slightly sweet touch that perfectly complements the richness of the dish.

With flavors so compelling, you might just get a marriage proposal after serving this dish!

Ingredients for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To create the perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces of pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Additional salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing:

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
4. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Add the lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Stir in fresh basil.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

this PIN FOR LATER

Tips for the Best Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need a couple of minutes per side.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richer flavor.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• Save pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce.
• Use fresh basil for the best taste; dried basil won’t give the same result.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette
• A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Freezing:

• This dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

Variations of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes and a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with garlic for extra depth of flavor.
• Bacon Boost: Add crispy bacon crumbles for a smoky twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or penne work best, but you can use any pasta you like.

3. Can I make it less creamy?

Yes! Reduce the heavy cream and replace it with a mix of milk and broth.

4. How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.

5. What protein can I use instead of shrimp?

Chicken, salmon, or scallops make great substitutes.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dish that wins hearts with every bite. The combination of tender shrimp, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just treating yourself, this recipe will leave you wanting more.

So, grab your ingredients and start cooking—who knows, this might just be the dish that gets you a proposal!

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