Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Introduction:
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a luxurious dish packed with tender shrimp, creamy Parmesan sauce, and aromatic herbs. It’s easy to make but tastes like a gourmet meal, perfect for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
• Rich and creamy: The sauce is velvety smooth with a hint of garlic and herbs.
• Impressive flavor: The combination of shrimp, cream, and Parmesan makes this dish irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add the oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and toss to combine.
   • Stir in the tablespoon of butter for an extra velvety finish.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Shrimp: Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and no longer, as overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Creaminess: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.

Recipe Variations:

• Add veggies: You can include spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Protein swap: Substitute the shrimp with chicken or scallops for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Special Equipment:

• Large skillet for cooking the shrimp and sauce.
• Pasta pot for boiling the pasta.

FAQ:

• Can I use frozen shrimp?
  Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
  Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 15-20 minutes for cooking the pasta, shrimp, and sauce.

Total Time:

• 25-30 minutes (including prep and cooking).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 245mg
• Sodium: 930mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

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Closing Notes:
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to win over anyone you serve it to. Enjoy the creamy goodness and succulent shrimp for a meal to remember!