Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A dinner filled with enticing aromas, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, leaving you with a tantalizing dish that blends creamy goodness with succulent shrimp. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious flavor profile that has been known to win hearts at the dinner table.

This recipe is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or any time you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. If you need to prepare ahead, the sauce can be made in advance and warmed just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy sauce beautifully coats each strand of pasta.
• Juicy shrimp adds a delightful pop of flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy sweetness.
• It all comes together in under 30 minutes.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish.

For the Pasta

• 10 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Garnish

• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Note: Coconut cream is a great alternative for a dairy-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Substitute fettuccine for spaghetti or penne.
• Omit red pepper flakes for a milder taste.
• Fresh herbs work well if basil isn’t available.

How to Make It

Create this scrumptious dish with these simple steps.

Boil pasta

Boil the linguine or fettuccine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and set aside.

Sear shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sear until the shrimp turn pink, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth (or white wine). After a minute, pour in the heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese.

Simmer and combine

Simmer the sauce on low heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.

Toss with pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed. Toss until well mixed and creamy.

Garnish and serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, cream sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the shrimp are dry before searing for a better sear.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference for custom heat.
• Garnish with extra basil for a fresh touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
• Make it a romantic dinner with a glass of white wine.