There's nothing quite like the enticing aroma of garlic butter shrimp mingling with the creamy richness of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate combination of elegance and ease, making it perfect for date nights or family dinners.

I first came across this recipe when looking for a way to wow my partner with minimal effort. Little did I know, this dish would become a household favorite. Its luscious sauce and tender shrimp are irresistibly good – and yes, it’s romantic enough to earn its charming name.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this decadent and easy-to-make pasta. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

First, the shrimp is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. A quick sear ensures they’re perfectly cooked, with a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sauce.

Second, the sauce is a creamy, dreamy delight. A combination of heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a velvety base, while sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly smoky punch.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s a one-pan wonder! Minimal cleanup makes it an ideal weeknight option without sacrificing any wow factor.

Finally, this pasta is incredibly customizable. Whether you want to add more veggies, spice, or switch up the protein, this recipe adapts effortlessly.

Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Every element brings a unique flavor to the dish, working in harmony to create something truly special.

Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. The size ensures they stay juicy, and their natural sweetness balances the richness of the sauce. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tangy gems are the secret to the sauce’s depth of flavor. Choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, more luxurious taste.
Heavy Cream: This is the key to the creamy, velvety sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works best for this recipe, as the long strands hold the sauce perfectly. However, penne or rigatoni are great alternatives if you prefer short pasta.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. A microplane grater will make quick work of grating the parmesan.

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creating this swoon-worthy dish is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfection every time.

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce later.
Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them release their oils. Add heavy cream and stir until combined, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Parmesan Cheese
Slowly whisk in the grated parmesan, letting it melt into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and mix well, ensuring every strand is coated with the luscious sauce.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and prepare for the compliments to roll in!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stores beautifully.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
Freezer: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the shrimp separately if needed.
Reheating: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of liquid to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe:

Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
Switch Proteins: Not a shrimp fan? Substitute chicken, scallops, or even salmon.
Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.
Try a Different Cheese: Swap parmesan for pecorino romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
Use Alternative Pasta: Opt for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles if you’re looking for a lower-carb option.

The possibilities are endless – don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a gesture of love served on a plate. Whether you’re impressing a date, celebrating with family, or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to steal hearts. Now, it’s time to grab your apron and start cooking – happily ever after begins in the kitchen!