Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Romantic Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a culinary love letter that has captured the hearts and palates of many. Imagine a creamy, garlicky sauce enveloping perfectly cooked shrimp and al dente pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. This dish has gained popularity not only for its delightful taste but also for its romantic backstory—rumor has it that it’s so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal!

People adore Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for its rich, comforting texture and the way it effortlessly combines gourmet elements with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Join me as we dive into the recipe that has everyone saying, “I do!”

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water; this helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine or linguine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. While the pasta is cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside. I like to toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together.

Preparing the Shrimp

4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. 5. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through. The shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch. 6. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. This will help keep them juicy and prevent overcooking.

Making the Sauce

7. In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This will add a lovely sweetness to the sauce. 8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. 9. Once the cream has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 10. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. I always recommend tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are just right.

Combining Everything

11. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess. 12. Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pasta, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dish. 13. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pasta and give it a final toss. The lemon juice adds a bright freshness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese.

Serving the Dish

14. To serve, plate the pasta in generous portions. I like to garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. 15. Enjoy your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, and I guarantee it will impress anyone you serve it to!

Tips and Variations

– If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing in some spinach or arugula just before serving. They will wilt nicely in the warm pasta. – For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich. – If you’re not a fan of shrimp, this recipe works beautifully with chicken or even a mix of seafood. – For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious

Conclusion:

In summary, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their loved ones or simply indulge in a delicious meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly romantic. Whether you’re planning a special date night or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to win hearts and taste buds alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to elevate the dining experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even swapping the shrimp for chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative variations you came up with! So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with this dish. Happy cooking! Print