If you are searching for a dish that will instantly wow your family and friends, look no further than this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe. This irresistible combination of tender shrimp bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce and twisted around perfectly cooked pasta makes for an elegant yet comforting meal. Each bite bursts with flavor, the savory Parmesan and subtle hints of garlic and herbs marrying beautifully to create a dish that feels like a special occasion, any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list here—each ingredient is simple, straightforward, and plays a crucial role in bringing out the rich, velvety character of the dish. From the sweetness of fresh shrimp to the sharpness of Parmesan, these ingredients work together in perfect harmony to create the creamy goodness that defines the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape; fettuccine’s broad ribbons hold the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen shrimp adds a juicy, meaty texture that’s key to this recipe.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The base for sautéing garlic and shrimp, delivering a subtle fruity aroma.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This gives the sauce its signature rich, silky texture that coats every strand of pasta.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the cream’s richness with a mild savory note.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of green color and a bright, herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your pasta in salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This ensures the noodles have just the right bite to hold up under that rich sauce without becoming mushy. After draining, set the pasta aside to wait for its creamy companion.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Let it cook until aromatic but not browned to avoid bitterness. Then, toss in the shrimp and cook them until they turn pink and opaque, about two to three minutes per side. This quick cook locks in their sweet flavor and tender texture.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
After removing the shrimp, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors from the pan to lift. Stir in the heavy cream and let it sit just long enough to thicken slightly, establishing the perfect canvas for the Parmesan.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Now stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually. The cheese melts into the cream and broth mixture, thickening the sauce while adding that unmistakable savory tang. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, and consider a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little subtle heat.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each strand and shrimp completely in the luscious sauce, making sure every bite will be bursting with that signature creamy flavor.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Fresh Parsley
Plate your creation immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a delightful herbaceous contrast that adds brightness visually and in flavor. This final touch elevates the dish into something truly special.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant green pop and a mild herbal lift that balances the richness of the sauce. For extra flair, a few shavings of Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper on top works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your pasta alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to bring some crunch and freshness to the plate. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also pairs wonderfully, perfect for mopping up the irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, present the pasta in individual shallow bowls or plates, garnished with parsley and lemon zest for a bright touch. You could also use edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant presentation that will impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—and believe me, there might be a fight for that—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to two days, though the pasta may absorb some sauce, so it’s best to eat it soon after making.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t ideal because the cream sauce can separate and the texture of the shrimp can change. However, if necessary, freeze the pasta and sauce separately from the shrimp, then combine after thawing for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking and the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with penne, linguine, or even gluten-free options. The key is that the pasta holds the sauce well.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Chicken breast strips or scallops can be great alternatives that pair well with the creamy sauce, just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they remain tender.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be used as a substitute to add a similarly savory and nutty flavor profile to the sauce.
How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, roughly two to three minutes per side. Removing them from the heat promptly prevents them from becoming tough and rubbery.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is truly a treasure, balancing indulgence with simplicity in a way that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether for a casual weeknight or an impressive weekend meal, it’s sure to bring warmth and smiles to the table. Give it a try and see just how quickly this creamy, garlicky delight wins everyone’s heart.
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Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a luscious and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce served over perfectly cooked fettuccine. This quick and easy recipe combines garlic-infused olive oil, chicken broth, heavy cream, and fresh cheese, making it an indulgent yet approachable meal ideal for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture thicken slightly over medium heat.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently so the pasta and shrimp are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta immediately while hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp is thoroughly peeled and deveined for the best texture and presentation.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor and melting quality.
- If you prefer a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning carefully to balance the salt content of chicken broth and cheese.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal experience.
