Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a showstopper pasta dinner that’s as dreamy as it is delicious, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a twirl of silky fettuccine tangled up with juicy sautéed shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety, parmesan-kissed cream sauce that simply begs to be mopped up with a good slice of bread. This restaurant-worthy dish comes together in just half an hour, making it perfect for romantic date nights, cozy family dinners, or whenever you’re craving the perfect blend of comfort and flair.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta plays an important role, from the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes to the luxurious texture of heavy cream. These simple yet essential ingredients are the secret behind that irresistible combination of flavors and colors in every bite.

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta (8 oz): Choose your favorite long pasta for the perfect saucy twirl and satisfying bite.
• Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Shrimp are the star here, providing sweet, tender flavor—look for cleaned, deveined ones to save time.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just enough to get the shrimp sizzling and glossy without overpowering the other flavors.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and gives the sauce its characteristic silkiness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The foundation of irresistible aroma and depth—don’t skimp!
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a little gentle heat behind the creamy sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped): Their bold, tangy-sweet flavor pops beautifully in this dish.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The heart of that dreamy, luscious sauce you’ll want to spoon up.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts right into the sauce for nutty, salty complexity.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a classic Italian herby note—so good with cream and tomatoes.
• Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle herby aroma that rounds out the flavors.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Go with your taste buds for seasoning both the shrimp and sauce perfectly.
• Chopped basil or parsley (for garnish): Brings a burst of freshness and color to finish off your plate.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until it’s beautifully al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving just a touch of the water in case your sauce needs thinning later, and set the noodles aside. This way, they’ll be at the ready to soak up every drop of that dreamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your shrimp in a single layer. Give them about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn a pretty pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook—they’ll finish in a flash! Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep them close by.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Cream Sauce

Reduce your skillet’s heat to medium and melt the butter right in those tasty shrimp juices. Stir in the minced garlic and (if you’re feeling adventurous) the red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle for about a minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and thyme, and give it all a stir—that’s where the magic happens.

Step 4: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. As those flavors meld, it’s time for the parmesan! Stir in the grated cheese so it melts into the sauce, creating the dreamy richness that makes Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta so irresistible. Within a couple of minutes, your sauce will thicken and coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked shrimp and drained pasta directly into the skillet, using tongs to toss everything together until the pasta is luscious and glossy. Give it a taste and tweak with a sprinkle more salt or pepper if needed. For a glossy finish and an extra pop of flavor, shower the whole skillet with chopped fresh basil or parsley right before serving. Get ready, because this is the moment to scoop it into bowls and savor every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped basil or parsley is the ultimate finishing touch for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Not only does it burst with freshness and color, but it also complements the richness of the creamy sauce. For an extra flourish, sprinkle additional parmesan on top and add a light dash of cracked black pepper for that restaurant-style presentation.

Side Dishes

This pasta loves a good partner, and a crusty loaf of garlic bread is practically non-negotiable for mopping up every drop of that luscious sauce. Pair with a bright, peppery arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy notes, or simple roasted vegetables—think asparagus or broccolini—to round out the meal without weighing it down.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls twirled high with tongs, then top each portion with a mound of glistening shrimp and a scattering of basil. Hosting a party? Portion mini nests into ramekins as a refined starter or transform the dish into bite-sized pasta cups using phyllo dough in a muffin tin for a unique take. Let your imagination (and taste buds) run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is surprisingly forgiving for storing. Simply scoop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken slightly overnight, but the flavors only deepen and get better. For best texture, keep the shrimp and pasta together in the same container; this helps keep everything juicy and saucy.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can be a little finicky in the freezer, you can still freeze this dish if you have extras. Cool everything completely and store portions in tightly sealed containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and keep in mind the sauce’s texture may become a bit grainy—give it a good stir and, if needed, add an extra splash of cream or milk while reheating.

Reheating

For perfectly creamy results, reheat Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Microwave reheating works too; use medium power and stir every minute to avoid overheating the shrimp. Just be careful not to overcook, as shrimp are delicate and can quickly become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking. This helps them sear nicely and keeps the sauce from becoming watery.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t your thing, try using roasted red peppers or halved cherry tomatoes for a fresher spin. Each brings a unique flavor and a burst of vibrant color to the dish.

Can I use a different type Main Course

Definitely! While fettuccine and linguine are classic choices for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you can use spaghetti, penne, or even tagliatelle—whatever you have on hand will work deliciously.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure that your Parmesan and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with dietary restrictions.

How can I add even more flavor to the sauce?

For an extra touch of richness, deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine after sautéing the aromatics, or toss in a handful of baby spinach until just wilted for a subtle green twist. Both options complement the classic flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to treat yourself or your loved ones to something truly special, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is sure to steal the show every single time. Once you take that first twirl of saucy noodles and juicy shrimp, you’ll see why it’s earned a spot in everyone’s list of most-loved recipes. Give it a try—your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to share it with you) will thank you!

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