There's something utterly magical about the combination of tender shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a creamy, dreamy sauce that's packed with flavor. Enter Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, a dish so delectable that it might just inspire a proposal!

The first time I made this pasta, I was looking for a dish that felt luxurious but didn't require hours in the kitchen. From the first bite, I was hooked—silky sauce, a hint of spice, and juicy shrimp in every forkful. Now, it’s my go-to recipe when I want to impress. Let me walk you through why this recipe is destined to become your new favorite.

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for a pasta recipe that checks every box. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want to recreate again and again.

First, it’s effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or hosting a small gathering, this dish is guaranteed to wow without requiring hours of prep.

Second, it’s a flavor explosion. With garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, every bite offers the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and rich flavors.

This recipe is also quick and approachable. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Lastly, it’s a one-pan wonder (excluding the pasta pot, of course). Less mess means more time to relax and enjoy your delicious creation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's a closer look at what makes this dish so special:

Shrimp: Use large, deveined shrimp for this recipe. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work beautifully; just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp beforehand. Their natural sweetness complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of tangy, slightly sweet flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, heavy cream creates that signature velvety texture. You can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, adding depth and nuttiness. Pre-grated varieties may not blend as well.
Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that build the foundation of flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s key to the dish’s irresistible aroma.
Pasta: Long shapes like linguine or spaghetti work best, though fettuccine is also an excellent choice. Their smooth strands hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

No special equipment is needed, just a good skillet and a pot for boiling pasta.

How To Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Crafting this delightful dish is a breeze. Let’s dive into the steps:

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until just al dente, then reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for perfect sauce consistency.
Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Build the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
Make It Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the aromatics. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Combine and Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.

From start to finish, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Storage Options

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

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of water or broth during reheating will bring it back to life.
Freeze: While cream-based sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Switch the Protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Substitute with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly for a lighter sauce.
Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus make excellent additions, adding color and texture.
Try Different Pastas: While long pasta works best, short shapes like penne or rigatoni also pair well with the creamy sauce.
Boost the Heat: Amp up the spice with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Ready to wow your taste buds and your loved ones? Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a foolproof way to bring elegance to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether it’s a date night, a family dinner, or simply a treat-yourself meal, this recipe is sure to steal the show.