There’s something enchanting about a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, and this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta delivers just that. With a saucy blend of garlic, Parmesan, and succulent shrimp that dances on your taste buds, it’s no surprise that I often whip this up when I want to impress or just treat myself after a long day.
Often, we find ourselves in a rut with quick fast food options, but this recipe transforms the concept of “easy cooking” into something far more delicious and satisfying. Picture buttery noodles enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, perfectly paired with tender shrimp that glisten like pearls. It doesn’t just smell amazing; the flavor will have your loved ones swooning—and maybe even proposing!
Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish makes any moment feel like a celebration. So, let’s dive into the kitchen and create a dish that’s not just another meal, but an experience. Ready to rediscover your love for homemade food? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta special?
Indulgent Flavor: This creamy delight is a symphony of buttery noodles and succulent shrimp, making every bite an experience.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll be enjoying this restaurant-worthy meal in no time.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to wow everyone at the table.
Elevates Home Cooking: Say goodbye to fast food; this pasta offers a comforting and satisfying alternative that’s truly homemade.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that even picky eaters will crave!
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this luscious dish!
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta – use spaghetti or fettuccine for a perfect base.
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp – peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – helps to sauté the shrimp to golden perfection.
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic – minced for depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream – the star ingredient that gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess.
- ½ cup chicken broth – adds richness and balances the cream.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – a cheesy touch that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – infuses the dish with a blend of traditional flavors.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – add a kick of heat to delight your palate.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – essential for enhancing all the delicious flavors.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – chopped, to add a pop of color and freshness as a final touch.
Now that you have your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Cook the pasta: In a large pot, boil water and add a pinch of salt. Cook your chosen pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine) according to package instructions, until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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Sauté the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the large shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set them aside.
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Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn; this will elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
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Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens beautifully.
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Combine everything: Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in that creamy sauce, and it’s all well-mixed.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness, then serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Add extra red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
This dish beckons a delightful array of accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; every bite is a delight.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds crispness that contrasts beautifully with the rich pasta. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra color!
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, smoky asparagus complements the shrimp perfectly, adding a hint of earthiness to balance the creamy flavors.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the dish while providing a refreshing touch on your palate.
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Lemon Tart: End your meal on a bright note with a tangy lemon tart; the citrus cuts through the richness and leaves you satisfied.
Indulging in these pairings ensures your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta transforms from a sumptuous dish into a full dining experience that will impress everyone around the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta components are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to indulge, make the creamy sauce and combine everything in the skillet, gently reheating it while mixing to ensure the pasta remains perfectly coated. This way, you’ll have a delicious home-cooked pasta dish with minimal effort, just as enticing and flavorful as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience without compromising on taste!
Expert Tips for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Perfect Pasta: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously; this is crucial for flavoring the pasta, enhancing your creamy sauce.
• Shrimp Secrets: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should only be sautéed until they turn pink and are opaque, ensuring tenderness.
• Creamy Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you achieve your desired consistency for this creamy dish.
• Spice It Up: For those who love heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes; they add a delightful kick that perfectly pairs with the creamy shrimp pasta.
• Garnish Wisely: Freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish, bringing all those flavors together.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy the creamy pasta freshly made; however, if left out, it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s lusciousness.
Freezer: While not ideal for freezing, if necessary, this dish can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. To preserve texture, freeze shrimp separately from the pasta.
Thawing & Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally, and add a bit of cream to revitalize the sauce before serving.
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste buds while still keeping that creamy essence!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta options such as brown rice or chickpea pasta for a delicious alternative.
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Low-Carb: Swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, creating a lighter, veggie-packed dish.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrients and a colorful twist.
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Seafood Medley: Exchange shrimp for scallops or even add mussels for a delightful seafood combination that’s sure to impress.
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Vegan Version: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and choose vegan shrimp or sautéed mushrooms to keep it plant-based and creamy.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill to complement the flavors; they can add an extra layer of freshness.
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Creamy Spin: Substitute cream cheese for half of the heavy cream for an even richer texture while maintaining that decadent taste.
Mix and match any of these variations to create your perfect version of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for large, fresh shrimp that are wild-caught if possible. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a sour smell, as they may be past their prime.
How should I store leftovers from the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
After enjoying this delicious pasta, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Certainly! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. To freeze, I recommend separating the shrimp from the pasta to maintain the best texture. Place each item in separate airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your creamy sauce thickens more than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream, stirring continuously over low heat. This method will loosen the sauce while maintaining its flavor. It’s all about achieving that perfect, creamy consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Good question! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a great choice as it’s naturally gluten-free (just use gluten-free pasta) and can be made without the red pepper flakes for those sensitive to spice. Always check for shellfish allergies since this dish contains shrimp.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Very much! While spaghetti or fettuccine are perfect, feel free to switch it up with any pasta you prefer – penne, linguine, or even a whole grain pasta would work well too. The more the merrier, as it allows for personal touches and variations!
Indulge in Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, boil water and add a pinch of salt. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions, until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the large shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.