Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's something utterly romantic about a plate of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. The way the creamy, garlicky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, paired with tender shrimp and sun-dried tomatoes, is simply irresistible. It's the kind of dish that feels like a restaurant-level treat, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first made this recipe on a whim for a date night, and it was an instant hit. Since then, it's become our go-to for special occasions—or whenever we crave something a little indulgent. Let me show you how to create this swoon-worthy dish.

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this incredible recipe! Marry Me Shrimp Pasta checks all the boxes for a meal that's as easy to make as it is impressive.

First, it’s a one-pan wonder. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The combination of juicy shrimp, savory Parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious cream sauce creates a depth of flavor that tastes like it took hours to develop.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. You can adjust the spice level, swap out the protein, or even make it dairy-free if needed. It’s a recipe that adapts to your tastes and pantry.

Finally, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for a date, family, or friends, this dish has that "wow" factor that makes everyone ask for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's a closer look at what makes this dish shine:

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal. Larger varieties like jumbo shrimp make for a more impressive presentation. Don't forget to pat them dry before cooking for that perfect sear!
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy burst of flavor to the creamy sauce. Use the kind packed in oil for the best texture and richness.
• Heavy Cream: This creates the base of the sauce, giving it that luxurious, velvety finish. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce won’t be as thick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must—it melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a savory depth you won’t get from pre-grated versions.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a robust aroma and flavor to the dish. Feel free to add more if you're a garlic lover!
• Pasta: Long noodles like linguine or fettuccine work best, as they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: This helps thin the sauce while adding a subtle savory note.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper. If you have a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta, you’re all set!

How To Make This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Crafting this dreamy pasta dish is as simple as can be. Follow these steps to bring it all together:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a game-changer for perfect sauce consistency.
2. Sear the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
4. Combine everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then toss in the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stores beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
• Freezer: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, but you can freeze the shrimp separately and recreate the sauce fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Switch up the protein: Try scallops, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms for a new twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or an extra dash of crushed red pepper flakes to bring some heat.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese.
• Go gluten-free: Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two or a cozy family meal, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a surefire way to impress. With its irresistible flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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