Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Ava
This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta recipe is perfect for those who want to impress with a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. With a creamy, garlicky sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a delightful treat for date nights or special occasions. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Seafood
Servings 4 poeple
Calories 560 kcal
Protein and Pasta
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 oz pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture
- 1/2 cup chicken broth for added depth of flavor
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to give the sauce a velvety richness
- 1 tsp lemon juice to brighten the dish
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
- Vegetables Optional but highly recommended
- 2 cups fresh spinach for added nutrition and color
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes around 8–10 minutes, but make sure to check the packaging for specific instructions. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. You’ll use it to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Texture
Now, stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, luscious base. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using) to bring in that perfect zing and touch of heat. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a little of the pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce, coating them evenly. Add the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, letting the spinach wilt into the sauce. Then, add the pasta and gently toss everything together until well combined. The pasta should be beautifully coated in that rich, creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Calcium: 170mg
- Iron: 3mg
Keyword Creamy Shrimp Pasta, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, Romantic Dinner, Shrimp Pasta Recipe