There's something magical about a plate of Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while tender shrimp add a touch of elegance to this dish. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night at home.
I first discovered this recipe when looking for a quick yet impressive dinner idea for a date night. Since then, it’s become a regular in my rotation, loved by everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe and how to make it.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Get ready to add this to your list of go-to pasta dishes. This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate combination of indulgence and simplicity.
It’s incredibly easy to make. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
The creamy, tomato-based sauce is packed with flavor. It strikes a perfect balance between richness and tanginess, with hints of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs enhancing every bite.
This dish is customizable. Whether you prefer a bit of spice or want to experiment with different pasta shapes, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.
The presentation is stunning. The bright pink shrimp and golden sauce make this pasta not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
With such irresistible flavor and an easy prep process, it’s no wonder this dish feels like it’s made to impress.
Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one adds its own magic to the overall flavor.
The shrimp is the star of this recipe. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best results. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work beautifully when thawed properly.
Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of concentrated flavor to the sauce. Use the kind packed in oil, as they’re softer and blend seamlessly into the dish. Don’t forget to reserve a little of the oil for cooking—it’s a flavor goldmine.
Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as velvety.
Parmesan cheese enhances the creaminess while adding a nutty, savory touch. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, as it melts better and has a more robust flavor.
For the pasta, I recommend fettuccine or linguine. These long strands pair perfectly with the creamy sauce, but you can also use penne or rigatoni for a heartier bite.
A large skillet or sauté pan is essential for making the sauce and combining everything seamlessly.
How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to create a meal that feels gourmet.
Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in a bit of the reserved tomato oil. This step infuses the base of your sauce with incredible flavor.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan until it’s fully melted.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing gently to ensure every strand is covered. If the sauce is too thick, use some reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve immediately.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp.
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute the cream with coconut milk and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Swap the shrimp for chicken or scallops if you prefer a different protein. Adjust the cooking times to ensure the meat is properly cooked.
Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or thyme, for a fresh twist on the classic flavor profile.
You can also add vegetables like spinach or asparagus to the dish for an extra dose of nutrients and color.
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that never fails to impress. With its bold flavors, simple preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen too.
PrintCreamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a deliciously rich and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp, pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce. Perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions, or weeknight indulgence, this irresistible recipe is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Serve this creamy shrimp pasta and let it steal hearts every time!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
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