There is something truly magical about the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp nestled in a rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, all tangled up with perfectly cooked linguine. This dish effortlessly combines bold flavors and comforting textures, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re aiming to impress someone special or treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this pasta is the perfect choice that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the irresistible taste, inviting texture, and vibrant color of this pasta. Using fresh shrimp and quality Parmesan ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, while sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements the creamy sauce.
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose linguine for a broader, silky pasta that holds the sauce well, or spaghetti as a classic alternative.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed large shrimp add a tender seafood element that’s central to the dish’s personality.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A good-quality olive oil provides the perfect base for cooking shrimp and garlic, adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and depth that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is the heart of the creamy sauce, lending a luscious richness that coats every strand of pasta.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory balance and thins the sauce just enough to keep it smooth and saucy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These add bursts of tangy sweetness and a lovely chew that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, it layers in that iconic Italian flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick for those who like a hint of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the delicious flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that finishes the dish with a pop of color and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente is crucial because it provides the ideal texture for this dish. Drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water – this starchy liquid is a secret weapon that will help achieve the perfect sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp to Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their delicate texture and maxes out their natural sweetness. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. This step builds the aromatic foundation for the sauce, allowing the garlic to infuse its essence into the oil and skillet.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now add the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and all the flavors marry beautifully. You’ll notice the sauce turning silky and full-bodied, the perfect match for your pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring well to make sure each strand is luxuriously coated. Use the reserved pasta water little by little to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick. This step ensures a glossy, clingy sauce that’s not too dry or runny.
Step 6: Add Shrimp Back In
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together, letting it heat through for about 2 minutes. This final mingle will allow all the flavors to merge harmoniously, making every bite satisfyingly creamy and flavorful.
Step 7: Final Touches
Give the pasta one last taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves to add an herbal lift and a pop of vibrant green that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the star garnish here, bringing a fresh, peppery aroma that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan on top or add finely chopped parsley for a splash of color and herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette are also perfect companions, great for dipping into every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls, allowing the sauce to pool beautifully underneath the shrimp. Another idea is to use individual ramekins for a restaurant-style plating, garnished with basil and a drizzle of good olive oil for a glossy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp and pasta will remain tender, and the sauce will retain its creamy goodness when properly chilled.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, it’s best to do so without the shrimp, as freezing seafood often affects its texture. Freeze the pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery and the sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to experiment with fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta varieties depending on your preference or dietary needs.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
How spicy is the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
The recipe has a mild kick from the optional crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less, or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Definitely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly without steaming.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little bit of the reserved pasta water or some extra chicken broth a tablespoon at a time to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. This helps maintain the creamy texture while preventing it from becoming gloopy.
Final Thoughts
You simply cannot go wrong with this creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe. It’s a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion at home. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try and share the joy of this delightful meal with those you love. Once you taste it, it just might become one of your all-time favorite recipes too!
