If you're searching for a dish that impresses with every bite, look no further than Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Tender, juicy shrimp are paired with al dente pasta in a creamy, garlic-infused tomato sauce that’s rich, indulgent, and downright irresistible.

Legend has it that this dish is so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal! While we can’t guarantee marriage proposals, we can promise you a meal that’s perfect for date night, dinner with friends, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests.

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is destined to become one of your favorite recipes. Here’s why:

First, it’s a showstopper. The combination of creamy sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and flavorful seasonings makes it restaurant-quality but totally doable at home.

It’s quick and easy. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a special dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The flavors are unforgettable. From the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the rich cream and Parmesan, every bite is a flavor explosion.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Pair it with your favorite pasta shape, add extra veggies, or customize the spice level to make it truly your own.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple yet high-quality ingredients to achieve its signature taste. Here's what you'll need:

Shrimp: Choose large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh is best, but frozen shrimp (thawed) work just as well.
Pasta: Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great choices, but short pasta like penne also works beautifully.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy depth to the sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
Heavy Cream: This creates the luxurious creaminess of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring bold, aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth: Helps thin the sauce while adding savory richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
Olive Oil and Butter: A mix of these ensures the shrimp cooks perfectly and the sauce is rich and velvety.

How To Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this dish is simple, and the results are spectacular. Follow these steps to wow your guests (or yourself!):

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 ounces of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of shrimp, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves and ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the Cream: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper (optional). Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss to coat everything in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the consistency. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, additional Parmesan, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra flair. Serve hot and enjoy the compliments!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely with this dish!), here’s how to store and reheat them for the best results:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or chicken broth to refresh the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce and shrimp, which can change texture when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Use Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even lobster for a luxurious twist.
Spice It Up: Increase the crushed red pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for more heat.
Try a Non-Dairy Option: Substitute the cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version of the sauce.
Change the Cheese: Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can add a unique flavor profile.

However you prepare it, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is sure to make any occasion feel extra special. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together – and might just spark a proposal or two!