Imagine you’re about to commence creating the perfect romantic dinner with Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
You’ll need to gather kitchen tools like a large skillet and pasta pot.
The ingredients list includes fresh shrimp, linguine, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese.
Precision is key in balancing the sauce’s creamy texture with a hint of heat.
Follow the steps closely, and you may just discover a dish that’s truly enchanting.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large skillet
- 1 medium pot
- 1 colander
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 stirring spoon
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you can follow this timeline:
Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
Timeline:
- 0:00 – 5:00 (Prep Time)
- Gather all ingredients and equipment.
- Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done.
- Mince the garlic.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
- Measure out the pasta, olive oil, red pepper flakes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
- 5:00 – 15:00 (Prep Time Continued)
- Start boiling water in a medium pot for the pasta.
- Once boiling, add salt and then the linguine pasta, cooking until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- 15:00 – 20:00 (Cooking Time)
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- 20:00 – 30:00 (Cooking Time Continued)
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- 30:00 – 35:00 (Cooking Time Continued)
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Drain the cooked pasta using a colander and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- 35:00 – 40:00 (Final Touches)
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve and enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!
Recipe
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful Italian dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and flavorful cream sauce.
The pasta is cooked to al dente perfection and then tossed with a creamy mixture of garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, while lemon juice provides a rejuvenating brightness that balances the dish’s richness.
This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, as its name suggests.
To prepare this dish, you’ll need to start by cooking the linguine pasta.
Meanwhile, the shrimp are quickly sautéed to a perfect pink and then set aside.
In the same skillet, a fragrant sauce is created by sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes before adding cream and chicken broth.
The sauce is brought to a simmer, thickened, and infused with Parmesan cheese.
Once the shrimp are reintroduced to the skillet, they’re coated with the creamy sauce, and the pasta is tossed in to absorb the flavors.
A garnish of fresh parsley completes the dish, ready to be savored.
To cook the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, begin by boiling salted water in a medium pot and cook the linguine until al dente, then drain.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add shrimp, and cook until they turn pink, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about a minute until fragrant.
Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and bringing the mixture to a simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted, then add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat with the sauce, and add the cooked linguine, guaranteeing it’s well combined with the creamy mixture.
Allow the pasta to rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.
For best results, verify that the shrimp aren’t overcooked by removing them from the heat once they turn pink and firm, as they’ll continue to cook in the sauce.
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance the dish’s flavor and melt more evenly into the sauce.
The lemon juice adds a rejuvenating touch that perfectly balances the creamy richness of the sauce, making this dish a standout choice for any special occasion.
Cooking Steps
Begin by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook the linguine until it’s al dente, ensuring a firm yet tender texture.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the shrimp until they turn a vibrant pink, about 2-3 minutes per side, before setting them aside.
Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then carefully combine cream and chicken broth, stirring until well-mixed.
Step 1. Boil Linguine Until Al Dente
While preparing your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, it’s crucial to cook the linguine to the perfect texture known as “al dente,” which means the pasta should be firm to the bite.
Start by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Use roughly 4-6 quarts of water per pound of pasta to allow ample space for the linguine to move freely, preventing clumping.
Once boiling, add the linguine, stirring immediately to separate the strands.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark.
Taste a strand; it should resist slightly when bitten but not be hard.
Drain the pasta using a colander, ensuring all water is removed, and set aside for the next steps.
Step 2. Sauté Shrimp in Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer.
Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, guaranteeing even cooking.
Use tongs to flip the shrimp gently, avoiding overcooking.
Maintain a consistent medium heat to prevent burning. The shrimp should be firm yet tender.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat oil | Until shimmering in the skillet |
| Add shrimp | Single layer, not crowded |
| Sear shrimp | 2-3 minutes per side |
| Flip shrimp | Use tongs, gentle handling |
Once cooked, do not proceed to removal yet. Ascertain all shrimp are uniformly pink and opaque before considering the next step.
Step 3. Remove Shrimp, Set Aside
Swiftly remove the shrimp from the skillet using tongs, guaranteeing each is uniformly pink and opaque.
It’s essential you don’t overcook them, as they’ll finish cooking when reintroduced to the sauce later.
Set them aside in a warm spot to maintain their temperature and succulence.
This step is critical for achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance in the final dish.
Remember:
- Uniform color: Pink and opaque with no translucent spots.
- Heat retention: Keep them warm, but not directly on heat.
- Timing: 2-3 minutes per side is usually sufficient.
- Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to guarantee even cooking.
- Moisture: Avoid letting them dry out by covering loosely with foil if needed.
This precision guarantees your shrimp are succulent and flavorful.
Step 4. Sauté Garlic Until Fragrant
Begin by adding the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the same skillet, ensuring the heat is set to medium.
Use a stirring spoon to distribute the ingredients evenly, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic oils.
You’ll want to sauté for about one minute, maintaining vigilance, as garlic can burn quickly if unattended.
Watch for the garlic to turn a light golden brown, signaling it’s perfectly sautéed and aromatic.
Keep stirring gently to prevent sticking or scorching.
The red pepper flakes will infuse the oil with a subtle heat, adding depth to the dish.
Once the garlic is fragrant, and the kitchen fills with its inviting aroma, you’re ready for the next step.
Avoid overcooking to preserve the delicate flavors.
Step 5. Combine Cream and Broth
As you shift from sautéing to simmering, pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, guaranteeing a smooth pour to avoid splattering.
Stir the mixture with a steady hand, maintaining a medium heat to gently bring it to a simmer.
This step is essential for creating a cohesive sauce that binds the flavors.
- Use a whisk to incorporate the cream and broth seamlessly.
- Monitor the heat to prevent the cream from burning.
- Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Avoid boiling which can cause the cream to separate.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Precision in these steps guarantees your sauce is rich, creamy, and perfectly complements the shrimp and pasta.
Serving Tips
- Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light and invigorating side that complements the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds a healthy and colorful element to the meal with a hint of charred flavor.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of wine enhances the dish’s flavors and provides a revitalizing contrast.
- Steamed Asparagus: A simple and elegant vegetable side that pairs well with the creamy shrimp pasta.
Storage/Freezing/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from drying out.
Freezing: To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and store for up to two months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s creaminess, and stirring occasionally until heated through.
Final Thoughts
After ensuring your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is properly stored or reheated, it’s time to appreciate what makes this dish truly special.
The fusion of textures and flavors creates an exquisite culinary experience.
Here’s a quick table to summarize key components of the dish:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | Juicy, tender, cooked just until pink |
| Linguine Pasta | Al dente, absorbs sauce efficiently |
| Creamy Sauce | Smooth blend of cream, broth, and cheese |
| Lemon Juice | Adds brightness, balances richness |
Each element contributes to the dish’s allure, providing a symphony of taste with every bite.
The freshness of parsley and the subtle heat from red pepper flakes complete this harmonious ensemble.
Remember, precision in preparation enhances the final result, ensuring each mouthful is unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can This Dish Be Made With Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta. Substitute with your preferred gluten-free variety. Cook according to package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Drain thoroughly before adding to the sauce. Verify all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What Wine Pairs Well With This Pasta?
Pair your pasta with a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc. Their acidity complements the creamy sauce and shrimp. Guarantee the wine is well-chilled to enhance flavors. Opt for a reputable vineyard for quality assurance.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative for the Heavy Cream?
Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Make sure it’s well-mixed to prevent separation. Adjust seasoning, as coconut milk’s sweetness may alter the dish’s balance. Taste, then tweak salt and pepper accordingly.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Add them during step 9, allowing just enough time for them to warm through in the sauce. Be vigilant to avoid overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.
How Can I Make the Dish Spicier?
To make the dish spicier, increase red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon. Add finely chopped fresh chili, such as jalapeño or serrano, during garlic sauté. Adjust spice levels by tasting, ensuring consistent heat distribution throughout.
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 medium pot
- 1 colander
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Stirring spoon
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the linguine pasta in a medium pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add shrimp, cooking until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
