Name: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy, Irresistible Dish That Wins Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Shrimp; 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); For the Sauce; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish); For the Pasta; 12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine or linguine; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing cooked pasta)

Few dishes capture romance and comfort in a single bite like Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken recipe, this luxurious seafood version features succulent shrimp simmered in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. Each twirl of pasta delivers rich flavor, a velvety texture, and just the right touch of spice—making it a dish that might just earn you a proposal at first bite.

Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta looks and tastes restaurant-worthy but comes together in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply craving a creamy, indulgent pasta, this dish combines elegance and comfort in perfect harmony.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

For the Pasta

12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine or linguine
1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing cooked pasta)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures they sear nicely without releasing too much moisture. Season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Toss the cooked pasta lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while preparing the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet used for the shrimp, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute to infuse the oil with their flavor.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Add heavy cream and stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer together for 1–2 minutes to soak up all the flavors. Then, add the cooked pasta directly to the pan. Toss everything gently until the noodles are evenly coated and the sauce clings beautifully to each strand.

Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Conservation and Storage

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta tastes best when enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still shine with proper storage.

Refrigeration:
Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in short intervals in the microwave, stirring between each.

Freezing:
Although possible, freezing creamy sauces can slightly alter their texture. If you plan to freeze, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For best results, prepare fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Variations

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp for a bold, smoky kick.
Tomato Basil Version: Stir in ½ cup of crushed tomatoes or tomato paste to make a rosé-style sauce with deeper tomato notes.
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta: Omit the sun-dried tomatoes and add extra garlic and Parmesan for a simpler, more classic version.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a hearty meat-free twist.
Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter yet still creamy sauce.
Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or seared scallops for a surf-and-turf-style pasta.

Each variation brings a unique flavor profile, making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta adaptable for different occasions and palates.

Serving Suggestions

This indulgent pasta pairs beautifully with sides that balance its richness. Consider serving it with:

Garlic Bread or Baguette: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Green Salad: A crisp arugula or Caesar salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful, nutritious addition.
Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and delicate shrimp flavors.

For an elegant presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan, a few basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) make a big difference in texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—overcooking will make them rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
Balance the Sauce: The key to a great sauce is harmony. Adjust acidity with lemon juice and richness with cheese to taste.
Salt the Pasta Water: It’s the only chance to season the pasta itself. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water.
Control the Heat: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer, not a boil, to prevent it from separating or curdling.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt smoothly, so freshly grated Parmesan gives a silky finish.
Garnish Wisely: A touch of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving enhances both aroma and flavor.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that combines elegance, indulgence, and heartwarming comfort. The rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes perfectly complements the tender shrimp and silky pasta, creating a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable.

Its versatility makes it ideal for any occasion—whether you’re cooking to impress someone special, serving guests, or treating yourself to a cozy dinner at home. From quick weeknight meals to romantic date nights, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta proves that simple ingredients, when paired with care and creativity, can deliver extraordinary flavor.

Serve it once, and you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me.” One bite, and this creamy shrimp pasta might just steal your heart—or someone else’s.

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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy, Irresistible Dish That Wins Hearts

Author: hafsahafsa
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, romantic, and flavor-packed dish featuring tender shrimp, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich Parmesan sauce. Inspired by the famous Marry Me Chicken, this seafood twist delivers elegance and comfort in every bite. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, it comes together in under 40 minutes and is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp

1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

For the Pasta

12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine or linguine

1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing cooked pasta)

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Pasta:
Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Build the Flavor Base:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and stir for 1 minute.

Create the Sauce:
Pour in broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combine and Finish:
Add shrimp back to the pan and toss to coat. Stir in cooked pasta, adding a splash of pasta water as needed for consistency. Finish with lemon juice, garnish with basil or parsley, and serve hot with extra Parmesan.