Creamy, dreamy, and irresistibly delicious, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that might just inspire a proposal. This recipe wraps tender shrimp in a luscious, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, then tosses it all with perfectly al dente pasta. It’s a romantic dinner idea that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet indulgent enough for special occasions.
With a kiss of garlic, a pinch of chili for warmth, and the kind of sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of linguine, this dish hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply craving comfort, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta deserves a place in your go-to dinner rotation.
Ingredients for this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Simmer the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 more minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What kind of pasta works best?
Linguine and fettuccine are great choices because they hold onto the creamy sauce, but spaghetti or even penne will work in a pinch.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference, or add a touch of cayenne for an extra kick.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk in place of cream and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
What can I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted asparagus make perfect sides for this pasta.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Definitely. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms blend beautifully with the creamy sauce and shrimp.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
Description
Get ready to fall head over heels with this creamy and comforting seafood pasta recipe. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dreamy blend of tender shrimp, rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine that makes for a quick dinner idea or a standout romantic meal. This easy recipe balances bold garlic, Italian herbs, and a hint of chili to keep every bite interesting. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or want an impressive yet easy food idea, this dish will surely deliver. It’s one of those must-try dinner ideas that feels fancy without the fuss—perfect for your list of healthy snacks, easy dinners, or weeknight comfort meals.
Ingredients
12 oz linguine or fettuccine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Notes
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp, then cook 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Stir, then add Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Simmer 3-4 minutes.
- Add shrimp and pasta back to the skillet. Toss to coat and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.