Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's something magical about a dish that combines creamy, garlicky goodness with tender, succulent shrimp and perfectly al dente pasta. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of recipe that lives up to its name – it’s so good, it might just inspire a proposal! Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a family-friendly feast, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made this dish, it was for a last-minute dinner party. I needed something impressive but quick, and it delivered beautifully. Now, it’s a go-to for date nights, celebrations, and cozy evenings at home. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite pasta dish! This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is bursting with flavor, easy to make, and oh-so-satisfying.

First off, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining, it’s a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

The combination of shrimp, creamy sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible balance of richness and brightness. Each bite is indulgent without being overwhelming.

Finally, it’s a dish that feels special. With its elegant presentation and luxurious flavors, this pasta is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly delightful.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance of simple, fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to make it shine:

Shrimp: Opt for large, deveined shrimp with tails removed for easy eating. Fresh or frozen shrimp work perfectly—just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry for a good sear.

Pasta: While linguine is my favorite for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you love. Penne or fettuccine are great alternatives.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.

Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, heavy cream creates a luscious, silky texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be substituted.

Garlic and Shallots: These aromatic powerhouses infuse the dish with layers of flavor. Make sure they’re finely minced for even cooking.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a savory, nutty flavor. Skip the pre-grated variety for the best results.

Special Equipment: A large skillet for sautéing the shrimp and making the sauce, plus a big pot for cooking the pasta, are all you need.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this delicious dish is as easy as it is rewarding. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Start by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add your pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté your minced garlic and shallots until fragrant. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for a minute to release their flavor.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a rich, creamy pasta dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this dish stores beautifully.

• Refrigerate: Place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
• Freeze: While the cream sauce can change texture slightly when frozen, this dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is!

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of shrimp? Try this recipe with chicken, scallops, or even salmon.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed version.
• Spice It Up: Love a little heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish completely gluten-free.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own! The possibilities are endless, and each variation is just as delicious as the original.

Make tonight special with this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta! It’s quick, delicious, and destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. 🥂

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