Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Now imagine that combined with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta; it’s enough to make anyone swoon. This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to sweep you off your feet—maybe even to the altar.

I remember making this dish for the first time during a dinner party. The shrieks of delight were music to my ears as friends devoured every last bite. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you dreaming about it long after the plates are cleared. Perfect for date nights or any occasion where you want to impress without breaking a sweat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting yet elegant dish
  • Its stunning presentation will wow your guests and make any dinner feel special
  • Versatile enough for any gathering, it pairs well with various sides or salads

When I first served this dish at home, my partner couldn’t stop asking how I managed such deliciousness on a weekday!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pasta: Use fettuccine or linguine for the best texture and ability to hold onto the sauce.
  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimps work great; just ensure they’re deveined and peeled for easy cooking.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will provide the most aromatic flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
  • Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream for a rich sauce that envelops every strand of pasta.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth; resist using powdered cheese for maximum flavor.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely into the sauce and adds vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch brings heat without overpowering the dish—adjust according to your spice preference.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in this delightful dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes should do it.

Add Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them!

Create the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently; add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes while whisking until everything combines beautifully.

Toss in Spinach: Add fresh spinach into the sauce mixture and stir until wilted—this takes about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds color and nutrition!

Combine Everything: Finally, drain your pasta (reserve some pasta water) and add it directly into the skillet with shrimp sauce. Toss gently until everything is well coated; add reserved water if needed for consistency.

Now that you’ve effortlessly created a romantic masterpiece in just 30 minutes, serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top!

Key Insights

  • Use fresh shrimp for a better texture
  • Overcooking can turn shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them
  • Pairing with a crisp salad enhances the dish’s flavors and makes it more balanced

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add the shrimp and cook until pink. Meanwhile, boil your pasta for perfect timing. This ensures everything finishes cooking together for that ultimate flavor harmony.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten up the dish, giving it a refreshing twist that’s perfect for warm nights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Freshly peeled garlic enhances flavor more than pre-minced options
  • Use high-quality pasta for better taste and texture
  • Always season your water well when boiling pasta for optimal flavor absorption

Cooking this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta reminds me of our first dinner party, where I nervously served it while spilling sauce everywhere! Yet everyone loved it and asked for seconds!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of shrimp should I use for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Fresh or frozen shrimp works well; just ensure they are deveined for easy eating.

Can I make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance but cook the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute if I don’t have white wine?

Use chicken broth or lemon juice as alternatives to maintain flavor without alcohol.

Print
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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta


  • Author: homerecipeseasy
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of succulent shrimp and creamy sauce over al dente pasta, perfect for impressing your loved ones on any special occasion.


Ingredients

  • Fettuccine or linguine
  • Fresh or frozen shrimp (deveined and peeled)
  • Garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh spinach
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Salt & pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
  3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque (3-4 minutes), being careful not to overcook.
  4. Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; simmer gently until combined.
  5. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted (1-2 minutes).
  6. Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp sauce, tossing gently to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
  • Calories: 680
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: - Enhance flavor with a squeeze of lemon before serving. - Substitute shrimp with chicken or add vegetables like cherry tomatoes for variety.

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