Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail on or off)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 10 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for pasta water)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (or parsley), for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain.
3. Set aside while you prepare the shrimp and sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry using paper towels.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, melted butter, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium.
2. Add 2 tbsp of butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
2. Return the seared shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
3. Let it simmer for a minute or two so flavors can meld.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta, making sure each serving gets plenty of shrimp and sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra parmesan, if desired.
3. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a light salad.