Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy, flavor-packed pasta. This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of indulgence and ease, making it an irresistible choice for date nights, family dinners, or just when you want to treat yourself to something special.

I first made this dish on a whim, hoping to recreate the velvety richness of a restaurant-style seafood pasta. With succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, it was love at first bite. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen—and I guarantee it’ll become one in yours too!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this dish! Here’s why this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. Despite tasting like a labor-intensive gourmet meal, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavor is out of this world. A rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of spice wraps around tender shrimp and pasta, making every bite a delight.

It’s also budget-friendly and adaptable. You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish shine, and you can easily swap in chicken, scallops, or even a plant-based protein.

Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time at the sink.

Ingredients Notes

This dish may look and taste extravagant, but it’s built on simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work together to create magic on your plate.

Shrimp is the star of the show. I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture. Fresh or frozen both work, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

The pasta you choose matters! I love using linguine or fettuccine because they beautifully hold onto the creamy sauce, but penne or rigatoni are great options too.

For the sauce, sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-tangy depth of flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp. Use the oil-packed variety for the best richness, and chop them finely before adding them in.

No creamy pasta is complete without heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream creates that signature luxurious texture, while freshly grated Parmesan brings saltiness and umami to the mix.

A dash of red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning ties everything together, giving just the right hint of warmth and complexity. If you love a little heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes!

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this decadent dish is easier than you think! Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you master it.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, then drain and set it aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, as you may need it to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add your shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sear them for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. The garlic should be golden but not browned.

Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Return the shrimp to the pan along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, letting the sauce coat the pasta beautifully. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan, then serve immediately while warm and creamy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them properly so you can enjoy them later.

Place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken in the fridge, but don’t worry—just add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the dairy in the sauce, which can change texture when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so feel free to get creative!

Swap the shrimp for chicken: If you’re out of shrimp or prefer poultry, cubed chicken breast or thighs work beautifully in this dish.

Make it vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a delicious meat-free version.

Use a different pasta: While linguine and fettuccine are classics, penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti squash can make for fun variations.

Adjust the spice level: Love spice? Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne for an extra kick.

Try a different cheese: While Parmesan is a staple, you can mix in Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly sharper, saltier bite.

No matter how you tweak it, this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is guaranteed to steal hearts at the dinner table. Happy cooking!

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