Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Gourmet Flavor: The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, delivers a rich and satisfying taste.
- Versatile: Suitable for both intimate dinners and family gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine or pasta of your choice
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the linguine in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 620 kcal
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Add Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw them thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. What type of pasta works best?
Linguine is recommended, but fettuccine or spaghetti are good alternatives.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
4. Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
They add a unique flavor, but you can substitute with cherry tomatoes if preferred.
5. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
6. Can I add other seafood?
Scallops or crab meat can be added for a seafood medley.
7. Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add mild heat; adjust to your preference.
8. Can I prepare components ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce in advance; combine and reheat before serving.
9. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors.
10. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
Conclusion
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta offers a luxurious dining experience with its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and flavorful accents. It’s a dish that impresses, whether for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight meal. Enjoy the harmonious blend of tastes and textures in every bite.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta combines tender shrimp, a creamy Parmesan sauce, and bold sun-dried tomatoes for a restaurant-quality meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for romantic dinners or special family meals!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine or pasta of your choice
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil linguine in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta, tossing until fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- To enhance the dish, add fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms.