If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish delivers tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp swirled in a luxuriously creamy sauce bursting with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Tossed with al dente linguine, it’s an irresistible combination that balances flavors and textures flawlessly. Every bite feels like a delicious promise you’ll want to keep making again and again, making this recipe a new favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is simple yet crucial, contributing layers of flavor, color, and texture that build the dish’s irresistible character. From the aromatic garlic and fresh basil to the creamy Parmesan and savory shrimp, you’ll see how well these essentials come together effortlessly.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: Provides the perfect tender base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, bringing a delicate seafood sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds an herby depth that complements the shrimp and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for a well-seasoned dish.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Gives a subtle hint of spice without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook shrimp to golden perfection.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the creamy sauce.
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into the perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and luscious.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Provides a sharp, salty finish that binds the sauce flavors.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Contributes a sweet, tangy pop of color and taste.
- â…“ cup fresh basil, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a touch of warmth.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: More layers of herbaceous flavor in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Final seasoning adjustments to perfect every bite.
- Additional fresh basil, for garnish: A fresh, visual pop when serving.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. This means it’s tender yet still has a bit of a bite, perfect for absorbing that rich sauce later. Drain well and set aside so it’s ready to combine when the sauce is done.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. This simple seasoning sets the foundation for flavorful shrimp that will stand out even when coated with sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 6 to 8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them; you want tender, juicy shrimp, not rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant — this is where the magic begins. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, which will thicken your sauce beautifully. Slowly add 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let this mixture cook and thicken, creating a smooth base for your flavors.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Flavorings
Once the sauce starts to thicken, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. This blend will produce a creamy, flavorful sauce that is truly irresistible.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the linguine pasta. Toss well to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Allow it to cook together for 3 to 4 more minutes, letting the flavors mingle and the pasta absorb the sauce.
How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top add a vibrant burst of color and fresh aroma, perfectly balancing the creamy sauce. A little extra grated Parmesan can also be added for cheese lovers looking to elevate the dish even more.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines best when accompanied by light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread on the side is also a fantastic way to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe in elegant shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Alternatively, layering the pasta and shrimp in a clear glass baking dish makes for a delightfully rustic family-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve flavor and freshness.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Place the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Note that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the creamy sauce. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating can help revive the sauce’s luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine works perfectly, fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would all pair nicely with the creamy sauce and shrimp.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but keep in mind the sauce may be a bit less rich and creamy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create the roux.
How can I tell when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and are opaque throughout, usually 6 to 8 minutes depending on size. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so watch closely.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat and toss with fresh-cooked pasta and shrimp for best flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and comforting. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh herbs come together in such a magical way, it’s no wonder people rave about it. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a family dinner, this recipe promises to bring smiles to the table and requests for seconds. Give it a try and see why it might just become your new go-to pasta dish!
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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a garlic-infused, Parmesan sun-dried tomato sauce with linguine pasta. This quick and easy skillet recipe delivers a delicious Italian-inspired meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- â…“ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Additional fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the linguine pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper to evenly coat the shrimp with the spices.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create Roux: Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the butter and garlic to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes while whisking constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth followed by 1 cup heavy cream. Continue whisking and heat the mixture until the sauce begins to thicken, forming a smooth base.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, â…“ cup chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk and cook the sauce until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained linguine pasta. Toss everything in the sauce to coat evenly. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes to marry the flavors and reheat the dish thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve the Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta immediately while hot.
Notes
- Do not overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add tanginess; adjust quantity based on your preference.
- Fresh basil enhances the flavor, but you can substitute with dried if needed (use less).
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
