Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate creamy, crave-worthy pasta to impress someone special—or just treat yourself—look no further than the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, velvety cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all twirled with perfectly cooked pasta in a way that feels downright romantic. With every twirl of the fork, you’ll understand why this pasta has become the stuff of legends: it’s vibrant, comforting, and totally irresistible.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe comes from just a handful of familiar ingredients, each bringing its own burst of flavor, texture, or color to the mix. These staples transform into something that’s way more than the sum of their parts—promise!

• Pasta (12 oz fettuccine or linguine): The wide ribbon shape hugs the creamy sauce and soaks up every delectable drop.
• Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Tender, sweet, and meaty—the star of the show!
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity depth and helps everything sauté beautifully.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): For richness and an extra silky touch in the skillet.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): That classic aromatic punch that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
• Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon, optional): A subtle kick for those who love a little warmth.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped): Sweet-tart pops that elevate every bite and add gorgeous color.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Luxurious thickness—the heart of that dreamy sauce.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Lends savory flavor and keeps the sauce from getting too dense.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Salty, nutty, and totally essential for creaminess and flavor.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Blends classic herbs for an unmistakable Mediterranean warmth.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Brings out every flavor and lets you fine-tune the dish to your liking.
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, fragrant finish and a splash of color.

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente (tender, but still chewy when you bite in). Drain it, but don’t forget to save a little bit of the pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later. Set the pasta aside while you get the sauce started.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and foamy. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes per side—shrimp cook quickly, and you want them just pink, opaque, and juicy. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, toss in your minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat). Sauté for about 30 seconds—just until you catch that irresistible fragrance. Now, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring it up to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and all the flavors have kissed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss it all together, coating every strand of pasta and every shrimp in that luscious sauce. Let everything cook together for 1 or 2 more minutes so the flavors can truly meld and the dish is heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Scatter freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish. Dish it up nice and hot, and get ready to hear the sighs of delight!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

The right garnish takes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe from wonderful to show-stopping. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a flurry of chopped basil or parsley, and a crack of black pepper give it that vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish. If you like a hint more heat, try a pinch more red pepper flakes on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

To round out this feast, nothing beats a crisp green salad dressed with lemony vinaigrette, or a pile of garlicky roasted vegetables. A few thick slices of good, crusty bread or warm garlic knots are perfect for mopping up any bits of sauce left behind (and trust me, there will be—not a drop gets wasted).

Creative Ways to Present

For a date night, twirl portions into individual pasta bowls and nestle a few shrimp right on top. Serving a crowd? Pile it onto a gorgeous platter, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and let everyone dig in family-style. You can even fill pretty ramekins for an elegant first course. However you serve it, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe always makes a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooled pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually get even cozier and more delicious as they mingle together overnight.

Freezing

For best texture, I don’t recommend freezing the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe once everything is mixed together—the creamy sauce can separate and shrimp are best enjoyed freshly cooked. If you need to freeze, freeze the sauce (without shrimp or pasta) separately in a container for up to 2 months, then thaw and add freshly cooked shrimp and pasta when you’re ready.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water. Gently warm over low heat until hot, stirring often to bring the sauce back together. If using a microwave, do it in short bursts and stir between, so the shrimp don’t overcook.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken or scallops for the shrimp?

Absolutely! The Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is incredibly versatile—switch in chicken or even scallops for a delicious twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed so your protein is perfectly tender and juicy.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

For a lighter spin, swap half-and-half for the heavy cream and use less Parmesan. The sauce will still be creamy and luscious, just a bit less rich, which is great for everyday dinners or when you want to keep things a little lighter.

Is there a good way to add vegetables?

Of course! Spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted bell peppers are delicious additions. Stir spinach or mushrooms into the sauce a couple minutes before adding the pasta, or fold in roasted bell pepper strips at the end for extra nutrition and color.

Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique sweet-tart flavor that really sets the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe apart. If you don’t have them, try roasted cherry tomatoes, or simply skip them for a more classic creamy shrimp pasta vibe.

What pasta shapes work best here?

Fettuccine and linguine are the classics because they soak up that luscious sauce, but you can use spaghetti, bucatini, or even short shapes like penne if you have them on hand. The magic is all in that creamy, flavorful sauce!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy dinner that’s honestly easier than it looks, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is pure magic. Treat yourself or someone you love to this irresistible dish—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a treasured favorite around your table!

Print