Welcome to my kitchen, where I believe every meal can be a love letter to those we cherish! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that can turn an ordinary evening into something special. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and family or a professional looking for a quick yet impressive dinner, this creamy pasta is your answer. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to make hearts flutter at the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a lifesaver for busy nights. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight. The rich, creamy sauce envelops the shrimp and pasta in a warm embrace, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring smiles all around the table. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Fettuccine pasta: This wide, flat pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can also use linguine or spaghetti if you prefer.
Large shrimp: Fresh or frozen, shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and helps sauté the garlic to perfection.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter option, consider half-and-half.
Chicken broth: It adds a savory base to the sauce. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it a rich, cheesy flavor. Freshly grated is best!
Red pepper flakes: These add a hint of heat. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Fresh spinach: This adds a pop of color and nutrition. You can substitute with kale or arugula if you like.
Lemon juice: A splash of lemon brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh touch to your plate.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining! This water is a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish!
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This is when they’re perfectly cooked!
Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. This step is important because we’ll be using the same skillet for the sauce, which will soak up all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help deglaze the pan, lifting all those tasty bits stuck to the bottom. After a minute, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
If you find the sauce too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Spinach
Now it’s time to make the sauce even more delicious! Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture. Then, toss in the fresh spinach and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until the spinach wilts and brightens the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Finally, return the cooked shrimp and fettuccine to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in that luscious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
And just like that, your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that extra touch.
Tips for Success
Always reserve pasta water; it’s a game-changer for sauce consistency.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta. A Dutch oven works well too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing and making the sauce.
Colander: For draining the pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
Whisk: To mix the sauce smoothly. A fork can work in a pinch!
Variations
Vegetable Delight: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute fettuccine with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative.
Seafood Medley: Mix in scallops or crab meat for a luxurious seafood experience.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair your pasta with a light arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy look.
FAQs about Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This will ensure they cook evenly and maintain their juicy texture.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version of *Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta*, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrition!
What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before adding the shrimp and pasta.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own blend using dried basil, oregano, and thyme. This will still give your *Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta* that delightful Italian flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is a beautiful way to express love, and my Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is no exception. This dish brings joy not just through its rich flavors but also by creating moments around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a romantic dinner, this pasta is sure to impress. I hope you find as much happiness in making it as I do. Remember, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories you create while sharing it. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite together!
A creamy and delicious shrimp pasta dish that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
