Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the indulgent, creamy goodness of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, a rich and flavorful sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence at home.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a twist on the classic "Marry Me Chicken." One bite, and I was hooked! The combination of tender shrimp with a luscious sauce packed with garlic, parmesan, and just the right amount of spice makes this a dish that wins hearts every time.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is packed with bold flavors and a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each bite of pasta.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Even on a busy weeknight, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes—perfect for when you're craving something special without the hassle.

It's also budget-friendly. Shrimp may feel like a splurge, but by pairing it with pantry staples like pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, you can create an elegant meal without breaking the bank.

This dish is also versatile. Whether you love a little extra spice, need a gluten-free option, or want to swap out ingredients, there are endless ways to customize it to your taste.

And let's not forget: it's absolutely delicious. The creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked shrimp make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating a creamy, indulgent pasta you won’t soon forget.

Shrimp – Opt for large, deveined shrimp, either fresh or frozen. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick sear in butter and garlic enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a golden, slightly crispy edge.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These little gems pack an intense, tangy sweetness that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and flavor, and don’t forget to reserve some of the flavorful oil for cooking!

Heavy Cream – The key to achieving that rich, velvety sauce. If you prefer a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty depth to the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they often contain anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

Pasta – Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Cook it just until al dente so it retains a nice bite when mixed with the sauce.

You’ll also need garlic, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, butter, and fresh basil to enhance the flavors and bring the dish together beautifully.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the steps to make it perfectly every time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—this can help adjust the sauce consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet with a bit of butter and olive oil. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes in the reserved sun-dried tomato oil. This step releases incredible aroma and depth of flavor. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them soften for a minute.

Next, deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the shrimp. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly. The key here is to keep stirring to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.

Return the shrimp to the pan along with the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the perfect consistency.

Finish with fresh basil and extra parmesan, then serve immediately while everything is warm and luscious!

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), here’s how to store them properly.

Store any leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the creamy sauce, it’s best not to freeze this dish as the texture may become grainy upon reheating.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its silky consistency. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Make it spicy – If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or stir in a teaspoon of Calabrian chili paste for a fiery kick.

Swap the protein – Not a shrimp fan? Try using diced chicken breast or even salmon for a different take on this creamy dish.

Dairy-free option – Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.

Gluten-free version – Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

Extra veggies – Add baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is bound to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to wow your taste buds!

Print