If you’re searching for the kind of pasta dish that instantly wows and comforts at the same time, look no further than Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This irresistible meal features juicy shrimp nestled in velvety, sun-dried tomato cream sauce tossed with swirls of fettuccine—blending rich flavors and vibrant colors in every bite. Whether you’re planning a special date night or just want to treat yourself to something utterly delicious, this recipe never fails to impress with its savory depth and restaurant-style presentation. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is as good as love at first bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: every ingredient is chosen for bold taste, creamy texture, or pop of color. There’s no fuss—just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh heroes, each adding their own magic to Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Succulent shrimp create the star of this pasta with their sweet, tender bite.
- Fettuccine or spaghetti (8 ounces): Sturdy strands for catching every ounce of that luscious sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For a fragrant, golden base that adds richness and depth to your sauté.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Aromatic and punchy, garlic lays the flavor foundation for the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped): Their tangy sweetness and vibrant red color brighten up each bite.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of dried herbs creates that classic, cozy Italian flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For just a little heat that perfectly balances the creaminess.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Provides that signature lush, satiny texture we all crave.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce light and flavorful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Salty and nutty, it ties the sauce together with a cheesy bite.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing every layer of flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds silkiness to the sauce and helps everything meld beautifully.
- Fresh basil or parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): Provides a burst of color and fresh aromatic lift at the end.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your fettuccine or spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside—don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water in case your sauce needs loosening later!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for just 1–2 minutes per side, until they’re gloriously pink and opaque. Scoop them out and set aside—you want them juicy, not overcooked!
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Lower the heat to medium and add your garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Stir for about a minute, letting their flavors bloom. The garlic will turn fragrant and the tomatoes will soften, infusing the oil with their bright essence.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little kick. Now pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce thickens ever so slightly and the cheese melts into dreamy, creamy perfection.
Step 5: Bring it All Together
Drop in the butter and stir until it’s melted and your sauce is extra silky. Return the shrimp to the pan, then add your cooked pasta. Toss, toss, toss until every strand and shrimp is coated in that decadent sauce. If it seems too thick, a spoonful or two of reserved pasta water will work wonders.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Plate your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta while it’s piping hot. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Each twirl is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with shrimp—impossible to resist!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
For that picture-perfect finish, scatter freshly chopped basil or parsley across the top—it brings out the colors and adds a garden-fresh pop. A sprinkle of extra Parm or a swoosh of freshly ground black pepper can also elevate each plate visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Light, crisp sides work wonders with this rich pasta. Think a simple mixed greens salad with zippy vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or homemade garlic bread for mopping up extra sauce. Pairing with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio never hurts, either!
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in shallow, wide bowls for maximum sauce coverage or artfully twirled on individual plates for that bistro feel. Top with lemon zest for a surprise twist, or even sprinkle toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors only deepen, making it just as enjoyable (if not even better) for lunch the next day!
Freezing
While the creamy sauce can sometimes separate after freezing and thawing, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. For best texture, freeze sauce and shrimp separately from the pasta if possible.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high, as shrimp can get rubbery—low and slow is your friend here!
FAQs
Can I substitute a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti is classic, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta also shines with linguine, angel hair, or even penne—whatever you have on hand will absorb that luscious sauce.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. The sauce will be a touch less rich, but still beautifully creamy and satisfying.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a plant-based Parmesan to make a dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different, but the creamy texture still comes through!
What proteins can I use instead of shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your thing (or you’re serving non-seafood fans), chicken breast cut into strips or even sautéed mushrooms provide a delicious alternative. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I add more vegetables to Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers can add extra color and nutrition. Stir them in with the sauce before adding shrimp and pasta for an all-in-one meal.
Final Thoughts
With its rich, velvety sauce, succulent shrimp, and bright sun-dried tomato flavor, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is bound to earn rave reviews at any table. I hope you give this recipe a try—once you taste it, you’ll understand why everyone falls in love with it!
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Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a luxurious and flavorful Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta that will surely captivate your taste buds. This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich creamy sauce over perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook seasoned shrimp until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in butter.
- Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss until coated and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies.
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version or use linguine instead of fettuccine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
