Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is the perfect dish for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. This recipe dazzles with robust Italian flavors and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, infused with fresh herbs and spices, envelops perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta, making it a delightful centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this dish promises to impress with its rich taste and elegant presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is suitable for various occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
• Creamy Delight: The creamy sauce makes every bite a luscious experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it a favorite among family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Colander

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing shrimp and creating the creamy sauce in one pan, enhancing flavor integration.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for balancing flavors in the sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while preserving its texture.

Ingredients

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta dazzles with robust Italian flavors in just 30 minutes. Featuring a creamy sauce brimming with fresh herbs and spices.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine pasta

For the Shrimp and Sauce

• 1 pound shrimp, (peeled and deveined)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, (grated)
• 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, (drained and chopped)
• ⅓ cup fresh basil, (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the sauce thickens slightly, stir in grated parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well before adding cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with fresh basil, paprika, additional Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Gently fold in the cooked linguine into the skillet with the shrimp sauce until well combined. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so that everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta hot. Garnish with extra basil or parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Serving Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation.

Pair It with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the rich pasta.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy shrimp.
• Arugula Salad – Peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Enhance with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toasted bread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia – This soft, fluffy bread pairs beautifully with Italian flavors.
• Breadsticks – Lightly seasoned breadsticks make for a fun and easy side option.

Add a Touch of Garnish

• Fresh Basil – Sprinkling chopped basil on top adds color and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated parmesan enhances the dish’s savory notes.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

To ensure your Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is flawless, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t shy away from using generous amounts of Italian seasoning; it enhances the dish’s flavors significantly.
• Creamy Consistency – To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, let it simmer gently before adding cheese for a smooth texture.
• Cook Shrimp Perfectly – Ensure shrimp are cooked until just pink to avoid toughness; overcooking can ruin their texture.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter – Use fresh herbs and quality chicken broth for an authentic taste that makes a difference.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the amount of paprika and pepper according to your heat preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Complementing your Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some popular pairings that work wonderfully together.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus tossed in olive oil provides a tasty side that complements the pasta beautifully.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
4. Grilled Zucchini – This healthy option brings a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy shrimp dish.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious twist to balance out the meal.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add sweetness and earthiness, making them an excellent pairing for this rich pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque. This ensures it remains tender and juicy.
• Skipping the seasoning: A bland dish can ruin the overall experience. Season your ingredients well, particularly the shrimp, for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality pasta: The pasta is a key component. Opt for high-quality linguine for better texture and taste in your dish.
• Forgetting to prep ingredients: Preparing all ingredients before cooking prevents last-minute scrambling. Chop herbs and measure out spices beforehand.
• Neglecting sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick or thin, it won’t coat the pasta properly. Adjust with chicken broth or cream as needed for the right consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce combined with linguine and flavorful herbs.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute linguine with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer while maintaining similar cooking times.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preference!

Is Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its creamy texture and robust flavors are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your tastes—add veggies or swap proteins to make it your own!

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