Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe (Made Simple)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Indulge in a creamy, flavorful sauce that feels fancy but is simple to master.

Quick and Easy: Get it on the table in 30 minutes—faster than delivery!

Low Cleanup: One pan for the sauce means less mess, more time to savor.

Customizable: Swap shrimp for chicken, add veggies, or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Essential Ingredients

Get ready to elevate your cooking with just a few key ingredients:

Shrimp: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for sweet, juicy bites.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Go for oil-packed for rich flavor and chewy texture.

Heavy Cream: Creates the creamy, velvety base (or swap for half-and-half for a lighter touch).

Fresh Parmesan: Always grate it fresh for the smoothest sauce.

Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes: Essential for warmth and a little kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook 12 oz of pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well) until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season 1 lb shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté 4 minced garlic cloves until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir.

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth, then simmer.

Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until smooth, adding 1 tsp Italian seasoning for depth.

4. Combine & Serve

Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce, using the reserved pasta water to loosen the consistency as needed.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan for an irresistible finish.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Remove as soon as they curl into a “C” shape to keep them tender.

Layer Flavors: Add a splash of white wine while sautéing garlic for a richer profile.

Save Pasta Water: The starchy liquid helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.

Creative Variations

Make it Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach.

Turn up the Heat: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Seafood Upgrade: Mix in scallops or crab meat.

Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Avoid Freezing: The cream sauce may separate when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.

A Crisp Salad: Try arugula or Caesar salad for contrast.

White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a memorable experience. With bold, rich flavors and a silky texture, it’s no wonder this dish has earned its romantic name. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this pasta will have everyone falling in love after just one bite.

Light those candles, pour a glass of wine, and prepare for a dinner worth savoring. Now, who’s ready to cook?