Get ready to fall head over heels with your new favorite weeknight dinner: Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. With its luscious, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, juicy seasoned shrimp, and twirls of pasta, this dish captures everything you crave in a restaurant-worthy meal—right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re aiming to impress a special someone or looking for a dreamy comfort food, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a showstopper that’s as easy as it is unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the biggest joys of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is how just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients come together for a dish that tastes incredible. Each item brings something special to the table, whether it’s richness, color, or a punch of flavor.
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta: Long noodles soak up all the luxurious cream sauce beautifully—use your favorite or what you have on hand!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Searing the shrimp in olive oil gives them irresistible golden edges.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh, juicy shrimp are the star, lending sweetness and bite to every forkful.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both shrimp and sauce to perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: A sprinkle of this smoky spice transforms the flavor of the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings rich, silky body to the sauce base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic foundation of nearly every great pasta.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped: These sweet-tart gems add bursts of bold flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that dreamy, ultra-creamy texture everyone falls for.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce with savory depth—use low sodium if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts right into the sauce, delivering a salty, nutty punch.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous notes that round out the entire dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For just-right heat—adjust to your personal spice level.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional): An optional flourish for fresh color and a burst of herbal brightness.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your pasta of choice (fettuccine or linguine work beautifully) according to the package instructions, until al dente. This gives you perfectly toothsome noodles that can hold up under a rich and creamy sauce. Once done, drain and set aside, but reserve a little pasta water to adjust your sauce later if you like your pasta extra saucy!
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
While your pasta bubbles away, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry, then season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. When the oil shimmers, lay in the shrimp and sear for about one to two minutes on each side until they turn a lovely shade of pink and become opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in batches if necessary. Transfer to a plate and set aside for their grand return later.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—careful not to burn it! Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to unite these silky ingredients. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Now for the magic: stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Keep the sauce over medium-low heat, giving it three to four minutes to bubble gently and thicken ever so slightly. Taste here and adjust the salt, pepper, or spice if you prefer even bolder flavor.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return your cooked pasta and the seared shrimp to the pan, tossing gently to coat every strand and shrimp in that irresistible, velvety sauce. Let everything cook together for another minute or two—just to marry the flavors fully and heat the shrimp all the way through. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to add that optional sprinkle of fresh basil for a restaurant-worthy finish!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
Garnishing makes every bite feel extra special! Freshly snipped basil brightens up the rich flavors, while an extra shower of grated Parmesan on top adds savory, nutty notes and a gorgeous finish. For a pop of color and zing, a twist of lemon or a scatter of red pepper flakes are always welcome.
Side Dishes
While Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is fantastic on its own, serving it with crusty garlic bread or a leafy arugula salad with vinaigrette keeps the meal balanced and light. Steamed or roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also complement the creamy sauce and make beautiful accompaniments for an elegant table spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun entertaining, twirl pasta into nests and top each with three or four shrimp for a stunning plated presentation. Or, set out this pasta family-style in a large bowl, garnished with extra basil leaves, so everyone can help themselves. Pair with crisp white wine in your favorite glasses to really set the mood for a memorable meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the sauce is rich and luscious, it keeps the pasta from drying out if you transfer it while still moist and spoon a little extra sauce over top.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze this dish, cream-based sauces like this one can separate or become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze, allow the pasta to cool fully before sealing in a freezer-safe container for up to one month, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, place the desired portion in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but use 50 percent power and stir in intervals for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta ahead of time for a dinner party?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance (just undercook the shrimp slightly), then heat everything together with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. This helps preserve the shrimp’s tender texture and the sauce’s delicious creaminess.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though the finish won’t be quite as rich. Some readers also enjoy using coconut cream or evaporated milk for a different twist—just expect the flavor and texture to change slightly.
What’s the best way to prevent overcooking the shrimp?
Keep a close eye and remove the shrimp as soon as they turn opaque and pink—this happens fast! Since they finish heating through in the sauce, you only need about one to two minutes per side during the initial sear.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Fresh spinach, baby kale, or even sautéed mushrooms mix in well for a touch of green or earthy flavor. Simply stir them into the sauce before adding the pasta and shrimp so everything cooks together harmoniously.
Is Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can meal prep portions for a couple of days. For the best results, keep shrimp and sauce separate from the pasta and combine when reheating. This helps retain an ideal texture and avoids overly soggy noodles.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about sharing a homemade bowl of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—every twirl feels like a love letter to cozy nights and memorable meals. Don’t be surprised if your friends and family ask for seconds (or the recipe) because this one is guaranteed to win hearts. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this creamy, flavor-packed pasta soon!
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Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, a luxurious dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce create a delightful harmony that will have you coming back for more. Serve this delectable pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
Shrimp:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente.
- Sear the shrimp: Season and cook shrimp until pink; set aside.
- Make the sauce: Sauté garlic, add sun-dried tomatoes, cream, broth, cheese, and seasonings. Simmer.
- Combine: Toss pasta and shrimp in the sauce, heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with basil and enjoy!
Notes
- Enhance flavor by using sun-dried tomato oil to sauté garlic.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter option or add spinach for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
