Ingredients
Scale
To make the creamy and indulgent Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth for more depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh touch)
- A pinch of Italian seasoning (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Shrimp is quick to cook, delicate in flavor, and works beautifully with the creamy sauce. It adds protein and texture to the dish, making it hearty and satisfying.
- Heavy Cream: The rich, velvety texture of heavy cream creates a luxurious base for the sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly.
- Parmesan Cheese: The addition of Parmesan cheese helps to thicken the sauce and adds a nutty, savory depth to the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of spice to balance the richness of the creamy sauce, but it can be adjusted based on personal preference.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness of the cream and adding a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Garlic: Garlic is essential for building flavor in the sauce. It adds a savory, aromatic foundation that enhances the overall profile of the dish.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Make the Cream Sauce: Add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and pick up any bits left behind from the shrimp and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
Final Touches:
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta warm, topped with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 500-600
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 35g