Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a show-stopping dish that blends creamy indulgence with bold, savory flavor. Plump, juicy shrimp are seared to perfection and nestled into rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce kissed with sun-dried tomatoes and a touch of spice. Swirled through perfectly al dente fettuccine, every bite is a luscious balance of creaminess and seafood umami — a restaurant-worthy meal right from your own kitchen.

The name “Marry Me Shrimp Pasta” isn’t just romantic fluff — this dish has serious charm. It’s the kind of meal that turns a regular dinner into an experience. Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or simply want a cozy, comforting meal that still feels elevated, this pasta has the power to steal hearts (and taste buds) in a single forkful.

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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor – The sauce is rich but well-balanced with garlic, herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• Quick and easy – It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Elegant yet approachable – Looks gourmet, but made with simple, everyday ingredients.
• Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or anytime comfort – This is a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
• Customizable – You can easily adjust the spice level, use different pasta, or even substitute chicken or scallops.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, having the right tools at hand makes all the difference in both efficiency and results. Here’s what you’ll need and why each piece matters:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your main stage. A wide, heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat and gives your shrimp room to sear instead of steam. It also holds your sauce and pasta, so size matters.
• Medium Pot for Boiling Pasta: Choose one large enough to give your fettuccine space to move freely while cooking. Salting the pasta water is key to flavor, and overcrowding the pot will result in sticky noodles.
• Tongs or Pasta Fork: Ideal for tossing the pasta directly into the sauce without breaking the noodles.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan (aka fond).
• Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Colander: To drain pasta efficiently, but you may want to save a bit of the starchy water to loosen your sauce if needed.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key, especially when balancing cream, cheese, and seasoning.

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Preparation Tips

• Use peeled and deveined shrimp: It saves time and gives a clean presentation. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water.
• Dry your shrimp well before cooking: Moisture causes shrimp to steam instead of sear. Pat them dry with a paper towel before hitting the pan.
• Salt your pasta water generously: It should taste like the sea — this is the only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly, usually in just 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
• Reserve some pasta water: That starchy liquid is gold for loosening your sauce if it gets too thick.
• Grate Parmesan fresh: It melts smoother and has far better flavor than the pre-shredded stuff.

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Ingredients for This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta balances simple pantry staples with bold, rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this delicious dish:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off based on preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
• Salt, for pasta water

Optional Enhancements:

• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness at the end)
• Extra Parmesan for topping
• Crushed red pepper for serving

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or linguine and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and slightly golden. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.

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Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Add in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

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Step 6: Add the Shrimp

Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta. Let everything warm together for another minute or two.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper on top.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and serve hot. Enjoy this flavor-packed, creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta while it’s fresh and steamy!

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Notes

• Choose quality shrimp: Fresh or well-thawed frozen shrimp (wild-caught, if possible) makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes: They add depth, tanginess, and a touch of sweetness that balances the rich cream sauce beautifully.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Grating it yourself ensures it melts properly into the sauce, giving it a velvety finish without clumping.
• Add lemon juice for brightness: A small squeeze at the end can lift the entire dish and balance out the richness.
• Make it your own: Swap in spinach, mushrooms, or even a splash of white wine for a personalized twist.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly — just 2–3 minutes per side. Leaving them on the heat too long makes them tough and rubbery.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into sauces.
• Letting the garlic burn: Garlic cooks fast; once it turns golden, it’s time to add the next ingredients. Burned garlic will turn bitter and overpower the dish.
• Not seasoning in layers: Season shrimp, sauce, and pasta as you go. This builds a more flavorful result than trying to fix it all at the end.
• Skipping pasta water: That starchy water is your best friend when it comes to emulsifying and loosening up thick sauces without making them watery.
• Crowding the skillet with shrimp: If needed, sear in batches to ensure each shrimp gets that golden-brown finish.
• Not draining the sun-dried tomatoes: If they’re oil-packed, drain well or they’ll make the dish too greasy.
• Using low-fat cream: It can curdle under heat and won’t provide the same richness. Stick to heavy cream for best results.

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What to Serve With Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor — so pairing it with complementary sides can really round out your meal. Here are eight ideas that strike the perfect balance between freshness, crunch, and comfort:

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   The ultimate classic. Toasty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce left on your plate.
2. Crisp Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   Peppery greens and a citrusy dressing cut through the richness of the cream sauce and balance each bite.
3. Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
   Lightly roasted asparagus spears bring a slight crunch and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
4. Caprese Salad
   Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a light, refreshing side.
5. Grilled Zucchini or Summer Squash
   Quick to grill or roast, these veggies add a smoky, tender element without overpowering the main dish.
6. Caesar Salad
   The creamy dressing and crunch of romaine and croutons work surprisingly well alongside pasta without overwhelming it.
7. Lemon-Garlic Green Beans
   A simple, zesty option that adds color and a bright pop to your plate.
8. Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus
   Not a food, but the right drink enhances the experience. Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites.

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Storage Instructions

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored and reheated with care. Here’s how to keep those leftovers tasting delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing is not recommended: Cream-based sauces and shrimp don’t freeze well — the texture will likely suffer.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long, as it can become rubbery.
• Pro tip: Remove the shrimp before reheating, warm the pasta and sauce first, then stir the shrimp in at the end to avoid overcooking.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~650 kcal
Protein	~35g
Carbohydrates	~45g
Fiber	~3g
Sugar	~4g
Fat	~38g
Saturated Fat	~18g
Unsaturated Fat	~17g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	~240mg
Sodium	~700mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Excess moisture will prevent a proper sear.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or linguine are great for holding onto the creamy sauce, but you can use penne, spaghetti, or even tagliatelle based on what you have.

3. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. Just skip the crushed red pepper flakes in the shrimp seasoning and at the end. The flavor will still shine.

4. Is there a dairy-free version?

You can use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor and texture will change slightly.

5. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer it a bit longer, or add a touch more Parmesan cheese. Avoid adding flour or cornstarch — the cream and cheese are enough when properly reduced.

6. Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken or another protein?

Yes! Chicken breast, scallops, or even salmon work well. Adjust cooking time based on the protein.

7. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce a few hours in advance, but wait to cook the shrimp and boil the pasta until just before serving for best texture.

8. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay complements the creamy, savory flavors beautifully.

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Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dish that turns dinner into something unforgettable — fast, flavorful, and just indulgent enough. With its rich, garlicky cream sauce, plump shrimp, and a perfect kiss of heat and tang from sun-dried tomatoes, this pasta delivers everything you crave in a cozy, romantic meal (even if you’re cooking for one).

Whether you serve it for a special occasion, an impressive date night, or a weeknight treat just for yourself, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results to your home kitchen — no reservations required.

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