There's nothing quite like the rich, velvety goodness of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to bring a touch of romance to your dinner table. With succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a luxurious cream sauce, this dish is a showstopper that’s deceptively simple to prepare.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for something special to cook for a cozy at-home date night. Its name intrigued me, and after one bite, I completely understood the hype—this meal truly is marriage material. Let’s dive into why this indulgent pasta deserves a spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible recipe. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is so much more than a meal—it’s a dining experience that transforms any evening into something special.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen. This makes it perfect for weeknights when you want something indulgent without spending hours at the stove.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The combination of juicy shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce creates a perfect balance of savory and tangy. Each bite is like a hug for your taste buds.

This dish is also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests, celebrating an anniversary, or just treating yourself to something special, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta fits the bill beautifully.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect bite.

Shrimp is the star of the show. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp work beautifully, but frozen shrimp (thawed beforehand) is a convenient option too.

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet and tangy depth to the dish. Choose the kind packed in oil for added richness, and be sure to reserve a little of that flavorful oil for cooking.

Heavy cream is the base of the sauce, giving it that luscious, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results—it melts more smoothly into the sauce.

Pasta is the foundation of the dish. Penne, fettuccine, or linguine are all excellent choices. Their sturdy textures pair beautifully with the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. A fine mesh strainer is handy for draining the pasta, and a wooden spoon makes stirring a breeze.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of the oil from your sun-dried tomatoes, then toss in your shrimp. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add a touch more sun-dried tomato oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.

Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is now ready to serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy every luxurious bite.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence with this dish!), you’ll be happy to know it stores well.

Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions for up to 2 months.

When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to customize to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a protein swap, use chicken breast or even scallops instead of shrimp. They’ll soak up the creamy sauce just as beautifully.

If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a hearty twist.

Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe, so don’t hesitate to make the swap if needed. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for your chosen pasta type.

Want a spicier version? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

With a recipe this versatile, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—you might just stumble upon your new favorite variation.

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that turns any meal into an occasion. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s earned its romantic name—and why it’s sure to win over your heart.