Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A creamy and flavorful shrimp pasta dish featuring smoked paprika and garlic-seasoned shrimp, crispy guanciale, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for impressing someone special!

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Season lightly with smoked paprika and garlic salt. Set aside.

Step 3

Cook the Guanciale: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced guanciale and cook until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pan. If skipping guanciale, heat olive oil instead.

Step 4

Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Build the Sauce: Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and cayenne. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Return guanciale to the sauce.

Step 7

Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 8

Serve: Divide into plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.