Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a luscious, garlicky sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This irresistible pasta dish gets its name from the famous “Marry Me” flavors—so delicious that it might just inspire a marriage proposal! With a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy notes, this dish is ideal for date nights, special occasions, or when you simply want an indulgent meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – A gourmet dish made with simple ingredients.
• Creamy & Flavorful – A rich, velvety sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or use your favorite pasta.
• Perfect for Date Night – Elegant, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce:

• Butter
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, chopped

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti
• Salt (for boiling pasta water)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring well.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

4. Combine & Serve

1. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
2. Toss in the drained pasta and mix well until evenly coated.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Extra Cheesy – Stir in more Parmesan or add mozzarella for a thicker sauce.
• Chicken Version – Swap shrimp for grilled or pan-seared chicken.
• Lighter Option – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw them first and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work best to hold the creamy sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cook quickly—only 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them as soon as they turn pink.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, more concentrated flavor.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers make great additions.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The sauce can be made in advance, but it’s best to cook the shrimp and pasta fresh for the best texture.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer or add more Parmesan. If needed, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of broth and stir in.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes! Substitute with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a blend of milk and cream cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner. With its creamy garlic-infused sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta, this meal is sure to impress. Try it today and fall in love with every bite!

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