Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, flavorful Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to bring everyone to the table. This dish combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, luscious sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs.

this Recipe

I first tried this recipe on a whim, wanting something special yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Now, it’s a staple in our home, perfect for family gatherings or when we’re craving restaurant-quality pasta without leaving the house. Let’s dive into what makes this dish irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite pasta dish! This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to prepare.

First, it’s incredibly quick and convenient. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want something special.

It’s a feast for the senses, combining the sweetness of shrimp with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes and the creaminess of the sauce. Each bite feels like a little piece of luxury.

What’s more, it’s family-friendly and versatile. Whether you’re serving kids or impressing guests, this dish can be easily adjusted to suit everyone’s preferences.

Finally, it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand. No need for fancy equipment or trips to specialty stores—just good food, made with love.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays an essential role, so let’s break them down.

The shrimp is the star of the dish. Opt for medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined for ease. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work beautifully; just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking.

Pasta provides the foundation for this recipe. I recommend fettuccine or linguine for their ability to soak up the creamy sauce. Penne or farfalle are also great choices if you prefer shorter pasta shapes.

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated burst of tangy-sweet flavor. Look for ones packed in oil for extra richness, and give them a quick chop to distribute their flavor throughout the dish.

The sauce combines heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese for a velvety finish. The cream gives it body, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth. For a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half in place of heavy cream.

To build the flavor base, you’ll need garlic, onions, and a touch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. These aromatic ingredients make the sauce irresistible.

Finally, fresh basil and parsley add a pop of color and herbal freshness, rounding out the dish beautifully.

How To Make This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is as easy as it is satisfying. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof dish every time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. While the pasta cooks, prep your shrimp by patting them dry and seasoning them with a bit of salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and golden. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, allowing their flavors to bloom.

Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step is key to building a rich, flavorful base for the sauce. Once the broth has reduced slightly, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring each strand of pasta is coated in the luxurious sauce. Sprinkle with fresh basil and parsley before serving.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a last-minute dinner that feels anything but rushed.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stores wonderfully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pan to revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Heat gently over low to medium heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a bit of space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as above.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to customize the dish to your liking.

If you’re out of shrimp, swap it for chicken, scallops, or even a mix of mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein or veggies are perfectly cooked.

Prefer a tomato-forward sauce? Add a tablespoon of tomato paste when sautéing the onions and garlic for a deeper, richer flavor.

Want a touch of zestiness? Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest just before serving to brighten up the dish.

For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast. This creates a creamy, indulgent sauce that’s just as satisfying.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs. Swap out the basil for thyme, oregano, or even rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a gift every time you make it. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this dish is sure to win hearts. So, grab your skillet and get ready to fall in love all over again!

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