If you’re looking to impress your significant other or simply indulge in a luxurious meal, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the recipe you need to try. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, velvety sauce that promises to leave you and your guests asking for more. With perfectly seasoned shrimp, a creamy garlic sauce, and a touch of sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is the definition of indulgence. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a family meal, this recipe is sure to delight.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the ingredients, preparation methods, tips, and even alternatives that will take this recipe to the next level. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to create this delicious Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta at home. So, let’s get started!
What Makes Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Special?
The name “Marry Me Shrimp Pasta” might sound extravagant, but it’s actually a simple yet indulgent meal that will make anyone fall head over heels. This creamy pasta dish is the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and freshness. The star of the dish is the shrimp – they’re lightly seasoned, perfectly cooked, and paired with a luxurious cream sauce that has just the right amount of kick from red pepper flakes and sun-dried tomatoes.
The combination of the rich Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil gives it a taste of gourmet dining, while the fettuccine (or pasta of your choice) serves as the perfect base to soak up all the creamy goodness.
Why “Marry Me”?
The name is actually a nod to the extraordinary flavor of this dish – it’s so delicious that it might just make someone want to marry you! It’s a playful way to describe the sheer enjoyment that comes with each bite. Whether it’s a casual date night or a special occasion, this dish is perfect for making a lasting impression.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is incredibly versatile. It’s sophisticated enough for a romantic dinner, but simple enough to serve for a family gathering or special event. No matter the occasion, it’s bound to be a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Before we start cooking, let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.
For the Shrimp:
- 450g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined: Shrimp is the star protein of this dish. It’s sweet, tender, and quick to cook, making it the perfect choice for a fast, elegant meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil helps cook the shrimp without sticking to the pan while adding a subtle flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper: These seasonings help enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the shrimp.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle garlic flavor that complements the shrimp without overpowering the dish.
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter brings a richness to the sauce that makes it creamy and luscious.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds depth of flavor to the sauce and infuses it with aromatic goodness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, red pepper flakes add a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is the base for your creamy sauce. It provides a smooth, velvety texture.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds a savory depth and a slight liquidity to the sauce.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These tangy tomatoes give a burst of flavor and a bit of texture to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano & ½ teaspoon dried basil: These herbs give the sauce a Mediterranean flavor, perfectly complementing the shrimp and pasta.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ¼ teaspoon black pepper: These basic seasonings balance the flavors in the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheesy addition thickens the sauce and gives it a sharp, nutty flavor.
For the Pasta:
- 250g (8 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice: Fettuccine is a traditional choice that’s perfect for creamy pasta sauces, but feel free to swap for your favorite pasta type.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Fresh basil provides a pop of color and adds an aromatic, herbal note to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these easy steps to make the most Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Once the oil is hot, place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so be sure not to overdo them. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma of garlic will instantly make your kitchen smell amazing! Next, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper, and stir to incorporate.
Once the sauce has simmered, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce, creating that luscious texture.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Fettuccine is the perfect choice here, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the creamy sauce and stir to coat them. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
1. Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick. On the other hand, if you want a milder version, feel free to skip the red pepper flakes altogether.
2. Add White Wine
For an even richer, more sophisticated sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine while simmering the sauce. This adds depth of flavor and a subtle acidity that balances the creaminess.
3. Try Different Pastas
While fettuccine is traditional, you can swap it out for other pasta shapes like linguine, spaghetti, or penne based on your preferences. Just make sure to choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well.
4. Make It Lighter
If you want a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute light cream or half-and-half for the heavy cream. You can also use shrimp stock or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter base.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! You can absolutely use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can thaw shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with fresh cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a spoonful of tomato paste for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble everything just before serving.
What should I serve with this pasta?
This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Falling In Love With
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and absolutely indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this pasta is sure to impress. With succulent shrimp, a creamy, herb-infused sauce, and the comforting texture of pasta, it’s no wonder why this dish has earned its “marry me” name. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Deliciously Indulgent Recipe
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
450g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta:
250g (8 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve
Return shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.