Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like a plate of creamy, flavorful Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to bring everyone to the table. The rich aroma of garlic, herbs, and tender shrimp simmering in a luxurious sauce is enough to make anyone's mouth water.

this Recipe

I first made this dish for a special family gathering, and it became an instant favorite. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even a cozy date night. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to discover your new go-to pasta recipe. This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just delicious – it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.

First, it’s quick and simple. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Next, it’s a one-pot wonder. With minimal cleanup required, you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing dishes.

The flavors are incredible. Juicy shrimp, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together with just the right hint of spices and herbs for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Finally, it’s endlessly versatile. Whether you want to adjust the spice level or substitute ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors.

Start with shrimp – the star of the dish. Choose fresh or frozen, deveined shrimp, preferably medium to large in size. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Pasta is your base. Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine all work well, but feel free to choose your favorite shape. The key is cooking it al dente to ensure it holds up to the creamy sauce.

For the sauce, you’ll need heavy cream, which gives it that rich, luxurious texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use a combination of half-and-half and a splash of broth to achieve a similar result.

Don’t forget the garlic – lots of it! Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a deep, savory aroma that’s truly irresistible.

Finally, seasonings like red pepper flakes, Italian herbs, and parmesan cheese round out the dish, adding layers of flavor and a slight kick that elevate the entire meal.

Make sure you have a good skillet or sauté pan for cooking the shrimp and sauce, as this will help everything come together seamlessly.

How To Make This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish is a breeze to prepare, but the results are anything but ordinary. Here’s how to create your masterpiece step by step.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add your shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in red pepper flakes, Italian herbs, and a generous handful of grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every strand in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to loosen it up.

Finally, return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Let it cook for another minute or two to warm the shrimp through. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.

This dish takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for a quick yet indulgent meal.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this pasta keeps well and reheats beautifully.

Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month, although the texture of the sauce might change slightly.

When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to the pan to refresh the sauce. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp and alter the sauce’s texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a delicious twist. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with different cheeses – pecorino romano or a blend of Italian cheeses would work beautifully.
• If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a touch of cayenne. For a milder version, simply leave them out.
• For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own. After all, some of the best recipes come from happy accidents in the kitchen!

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing smiles and full bellies every time. Try it tonight – you won’t be disappointed!

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