Hey y’all! If you’re looking to impress someone special or just treat yourself to a show-stopping meal, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need. With tender shrimp bathed in a creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. Whether for date night, a family gathering, or just because you deserve something delicious, this recipe is your new go-to. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Features a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s full of flavor but easy to make.
Shrimp cooks up juicy and tender every time for a satisfying main course.
Beautiful presentation and taste make it ideal for impressing guests or loved ones.
Minimal cleanup required—everything comes together smoothly in just one skillet.

Ingredients

8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup (80 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil and extra Parmesan, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes) until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream, stir, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Simmer for 1-2 more minutes until heated through.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot!

Notes

Don’t overcook the shrimp—once they turn pink and curl, they’re done!
If you love a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes up to 1 tsp.
For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

Variations

Chicken Marry Me Pasta: Swap shrimp for sliced cooked Chicken breast.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

Required Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet (12-inch preferred)
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board
Stirring utensil (spatula or wooden spoon)

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the shrimp can become rubbery when overcooked during reheating.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a perfect meal.

Pro Tips

Let your shrimp come to room temperature before cooking for even browning.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest, smoothest sauce.
Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce for a perfect bite.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. What kind of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or linguine work best for soaking up the creamy sauce, but penne or spaghetti are also great choices.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble and cook fresh for best texture and flavor. The sauce can thicken as it sits, so refresh with pasta water if reheating.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients