Name: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta – A Creamy, Irresistible Dish!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your loved one, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice! This creamy, flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, making it a meal to remember. The balance of garlic, herbs, and a luscious creamy texture gives it an irresistible quality. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or just treating yourself, this pasta will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

shrimp, peeled and deveined
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
chicken broth
heavy cream
parmesan cheese, grated
Italian seasoning
basil, fresh
parsley, for garnish
pasta of choice (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them soften for a minute.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together to ensure even coating.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for a different take on this dish.
Spice it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a bit more heat.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of parmesan cheese.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a meatless alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or omitting them entirely.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are excellent choices as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free parmesan substitutes.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

You can use cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or leave them out if preferred.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it with fresh pasta.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Avoid overcooking; shrimp should be pink and opaque, which usually takes just a couple of minutes per side.

What’s a good wine pairing for this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

Can I use a different cheese?

Parmesan is ideal, but Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work as substitutes.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or another low-carb alternative.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic evening or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe is a winner. With its velvety sauce, juicy shrimp, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that’s impossible to resist. Try it today and watch everyone fall in love with it!

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