If you’re craving a dish that feels like a cozy Italian dinner and a special occasion all wrapped into one, the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is going to sweep you off your feet. This luscious, garlicky pasta is loaded with tender shrimp bathed in a dreamy, cheesy sauce brightened by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s creamy, comforting, and elegant enough to serve for date night or a relaxed weekend feast with friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite pure bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor, adding creaminess, or giving that perfect texture that makes this shrimp pasta shine so brightly.
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: The perfect pasta to catch every bit of the creamy sauce, lending just the right bite.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Juicy and tender, the star protein that makes this meal special.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps perfectly sear the shrimp for that lovely texture.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic provides a fragrant and flavorful base that infuses the entire dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious sauce that wraps the shrimp and pasta in deliciousness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the cream and adds layers of savory depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty punch that melts seamlessly into the sauce.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: A burst of sweet, tangy flavor and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A herby mix that perfectly complements both the shrimp and the creamy base.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat to balance the richness, if you like a little kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every element perfectly.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Fresh, fragrant, and oh-so-pretty, the final touch that brightens the dish.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta from within, making every bite flavorful. Cook your linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente — tender with a slight bite. Drain the pasta carefully, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy water will be your secret weapon later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry, then season with salt and pepper for simple yet effective flavor. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, showing they’re perfectly done. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside — you’ll bring them back shortly.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. This step is crucial because it lets the garlic release its delicious aroma and flavor without burning. Be ready to stir constantly to keep it from browning too much.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the sauce thickens slightly to coat your pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. If your sauce feels too thick or sticky, add a splash of the reserved pasta water gradually until you get a smooth, silky coating that clings nicely to each noodle. This technique helps marry the pasta and sauce harmoniously.
Step 6: Return the Shrimp and Finish
Place the shrimp back into the skillet and gently stir to combine everything. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to warm the shrimp through and allow them to soak up some of that creamy sauce magic. Taste and adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are more than just decoration here — they add a bright, herbal lift that cuts through the richness of the dish. You can tear the leaves roughly or chiffonade them for a delicate, fragrant finishing touch that also looks stunning on the plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta is rich and satisfying, so pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette creates a beautiful balance. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccolini also complement the flavors nicely without overwhelming your palate. For bread lovers, a warm garlic baguette is an unbeatable option to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dish in a shallow white bowl to showcase the beautiful colors of the shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. You can drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for an elegant, restaurant-quality flourish. Adding a lemon wedge on the side gives guests the option for a fresh citrus zing that brightens each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this creamy delight, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors remain excellent, but shrimp is best enjoyed fresh so try to eat leftovers as soon as you can to savor their peak quality.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Cool the pasta completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Keep in mind, creamy sauces can sometimes separate slightly upon thawing, so gentle reheating and stirring are key to restore its silky texture.
Reheating
When reheating, do it slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in a splash of cream or broth if the sauce feels too thick. This will help bring back the creamy consistency without drying out the shrimp or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti work beautifully, feel free to try fettuccine, penne, or even a gluten-free pasta to suit your preference or dietary needs. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy plant-based milk, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Parmesan. The flavors will shift a bit but it remains delicious and creamy.
Can I prepare parts of the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and prepare the shrimp ahead of time and store them separately. The sauce is best made fresh, but you could warm it gently and toss everything together just before serving.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the red pepper flakes?
Definitely skip the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish. The pasta is flavorful and creamy enough on its own with the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?
The shrimp should turn pink and opaque all the way through and feel firm but not rubbery when pressed. Overcooking can make shrimp tough, so keep an eye on the time — usually 2 to 3 minutes per side does the trick.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you try the Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe the next time you want to treat yourself or impress someone special. Its gorgeous flavors and comforting creaminess hit all the right notes without demanding hours in the kitchen. You’ll love every luscious forkful and might just find yourself making it again and again.
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Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a garlic-infused creamy sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. This delicious pasta combines Italian seasoning and a hint of red pepper flakes for a perfect balance of flavors, ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Sauce: To the skillet with garlic, add heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Stir to combine and let it cook together for another 2 minutes until the shrimp is heated through.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Reserve some pasta water carefully, as it helps to adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
