“romantic dinner recipes”

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Irresistible Creamy Delight!

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A Decadent and Flavorful Seafood Pasta Recipe

If you are looking for an elegant yet easy-to-make pasta dish, then look no further than this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This creamy, savory, and slightly spicy pasta is the perfect combination of flavors that will make anyone fall in love at first bite. The succulent shrimp, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a dish that is both restaurant-worthy and simple enough to make at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Rich and Creamy – A luxuriously smooth sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan.
  • Savory with a Kick – A blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes gives it an irresistible depth of flavor.
  • Versatile – Pair it with your favorite pasta type or add extra vegetables for a personal touch.
  • Date-Night Approved – The perfect meal to impress someone special!

Ingredients for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To make this delicious shrimp pasta dish, you will need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
  2. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
  3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in chicken broth (or wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  4. Lower the heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
  2. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Serve the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta warm, with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top.
  2. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

  • Use Fresh Shrimp – The fresher the shrimp, the better the flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Cook them just until pink to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Adjust the Spice Level – Add more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
  • Choose the Right Pasta – Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work best to hold the creamy sauce.
  • Make It Healthier – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Variations and Additions

Want to customize your dish? Here are some great variations:

  • Add Vegetables – Try spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
  • Make it Extra Cheesy – Stir in mozzarella cheese for a richer, cheesier sauce.
  • Switch Up the Protein – Use chicken, scallops, or lobster instead of shrimp.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This rich and flavorful pasta dish pairs perfectly with:

  • Crusty Garlic Bread – Soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Caesar Salad – A light and refreshing contrast.
  • Steamed Asparagus – Adds a fresh, healthy element.
  • White Wine – A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • To Store – Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Not Freezer-Friendly – The creamy sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.

Final Thoughts

Our Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors that make it an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or just a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.