Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping meal that’s both weeknight-easy and date-night-fancy, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in silky ribbons of pasta, all drenched in a dreamy, sun-dried tomato cream sauce with just the right pop of fresh herbs. This is the kind of dish that earns applause at the dinner table and inspires second helpings—rich, savory, and just irresistible. Whether you want to impress someone special or simply treat yourself, every forkful is pure magic.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is in its down-to-earth ingredient list where every element shines. Each ingredient is essential for creating those layers of flavor—creamy, garlicky, with little hints of brightness and heat. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta (8 oz): These sturdy noodles are perfect for soaking up every drop of that luscious cream sauce.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds silkiness and helps achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp.
• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): The centerpiece—tender, juicy, and undeniably elegant.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out the full depth of the shrimp and sauce.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds classic warmth and enhances all the savory flavors.
• Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle smoky edge that takes the shrimp to the next level.
• Garlic, minced (3 cloves): The unmistakable aromatic foundation that promises big flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (1/2 cup): Intensely savory with a hint of sweetness, they provide bursts of color and tang.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Instantly brings that beloved Italian flair to your sauce.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick—if you like a touch of heat, don’t skip!
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to creamy richness and that crave-worthy sauce texture.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Brightens up the cream and keeps things from getting too heavy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully, adding both nutty flavor and creamy body.
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): A fresh, herbal finish that wakes up all the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or linguine just until al dente—it should still have a slight bite, as it will finish in the sauce later. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen up the sauce at the end.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Pat your shrimp dry, then toss them with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re pink, plump, and cooked through. Remove and keep them close by—you’ll want those flavor-packed beauties back soon.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce

Don’t wipe out the skillet! Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—it’s the start of your mouthwatering sauce. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and (if you like) the red pepper flakes. Stir, letting the herbs bloom and the tomatoes soften, which deepens the sauce’s flavor with every second.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Gently pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Stir as it melts, transforming the sauce into something truly luscious—slightly thickened and gorgeously creamy.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Pasta

Add the seared shrimp back to the skillet, then nestle in your cooked pasta. Toss everything together so that the noodles are coated in sauce, the shrimp is snug among the pasta, and every bite glistens. Simmer together gently for another minute or two, letting the flavors meld and the sauce hug every strand.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

The finishing touch on any great dish is a flourish of freshness. For Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, a shower of chopped basil or parsley brings welcome color and a burst of herbal brightness that beautifully balances the richness of the sauce. Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling decadent!

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better with this pasta than warm, crusty garlic bread—perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also ideal; it keeps things light and offers a lovely contrast to the creamy main affair.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a special occasion, try twirling the pasta into nests with tongs and topping with shrimp for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Serving in shallow bowls lets the vibrant sauce shine, and a final scatter of sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs instantly makes the dish look extra festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stores surprisingly well! Simply transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The sauce will thicken a bit, but the flavors only get better as they mingle.

Freezing

While creamy sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Just note that the texture may change a little upon reheating, but it will still taste delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating and so everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work beautifully; simply thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning. The flavor and texture will be just as good for your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

No sun-dried tomatoes? No problem. You can use cherry tomatoes roasted in the oven for a similar burst of sweet, rich flavor. Or, try a little tomato paste for depth.

Is there a dairy-free version?

For a dairy-free twist, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a plant-based Parmesan alternative. It will be a touch lighter but still delicious and creamy.

How can I make it less spicy?

Simply skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is still incredibly flavorful without any heat.

Can I use another protein?

Definitely! Feel free to swap in scallops or bite-sized pieces of chicken breast. The method remains the same and every version will taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how crowd-pleasing and satisfying Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be. Every bite is packed with flavor, and it’s a dish guaranteed to bring people together—whether it’s a romantic dinner or a cozy family night. Give it a try, and get ready for rave reviews from everyone at your table!

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