Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Dish So Good, It Sparks Proposals

ByEmma

If you’ve ever needed a dish to impress—whether it’s a date night, anniversary, or just a really strong craving—Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is your answer. This creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato-infused masterpiece has earned its name for a reason. One bite, and they’ll be ready to put a ring on it.

Contents

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another shrimp pasta. It’s luxurious but approachable, with a balance of rich cream, briny shrimp, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. The secret? Layers of flavor. You’ll start with a base of garlic and shallots, deglaze with white wine (or broth, if you prefer), and finish with a velvety Parmesan cream sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

Pro Tip: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp—preferably wild-caught. Frozen works in a pinch, but pat them very dry to avoid a watery sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this dish unforgettable:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tails on or off—your call)
  • 8 oz fettuccine (or linguine for a lighter touch)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (because more is always better)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (yes, really—this is no time to skimp)
  • 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (the real stuff, not the green can)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for that Instagram-worthy finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil your pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water—this starchy liquid is gold for adjusting sauce consistency later.

Pro Tip: Undercook the pasta by 1 minute—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce, soaking up all that flavor.

2. Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Pat the shrimp dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

3. Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Deglaze with white wine, scraping up those browned bits—that’s flavor, baby. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the cream and Parmesan. Simmer until slightly thickened.

4. Bring It All Together

Toss in the cooked pasta and shrimp, adding splashes of reserved pasta water if needed. The sauce should coat the noodles like a cozy blanket.

5. Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper. Optional romance booster: Light candles.

Make It Your Own

  • Protein swap: Try scallops or chicken.
  • Lighter version: Substitute half-and-half for cream (but trust me, it’s worth the indulgence).
  • Extra veg: Spinach or artichokes add a nice twist.

Final Thoughts

This dish is weeknight easy but special-occasion worthy. It’s the kind of meal that makes people pause mid-bite, look you in the eye, and say, “Wow.” And if marriage proposals aren’t your thing? No worries—more shrimp pasta for you.

Now, go forth and cook with confidence. And maybe keep a ring handy—just in case.

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