If you’re looking to make someone fall head over heels, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta might just do the trick. This dreamy dish is rich, creamy, and layered with bold flavors that come together in just the right way. Tender shrimp is seared to perfection, then tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that turns a regular dinner into something memorable.

There’s something special about the way the creamy tomato sauce blends with the sweet, juicy shrimp. It’s indulgent but not too heavy, and there’s a savory depth that keeps you coming back for another forkful. Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re looking to impress a date, this pasta earns its romantic name.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It comes together quickly with a handful of pantry staples but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The shrimp adds protein and elegance, while the sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan create a luscious flavor profile. It’s also incredibly versatile—swap in chicken or even scallops, and it still works beautifully.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Use large or extra-large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for easy eating. If you can, go for wild-caught over farmed for better flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp (thawed properly) will also work well in this recipe. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they tend to turn rubbery when reheated in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

The ingredients in this dish are all about building layers of flavor while keeping it easy to prepare.

Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp brings a sweet, delicate seafood flavor and a juicy bite.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine work best, giving the sauce something to cling to.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a rich, slightly tangy depth that complements the creamy base.
Garlic: Always a flavor booster, it gives the dish its savory backbone.
Heavy cream: Creates the lush, velvety sauce that makes this dish irresistible.
Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth to the sauce and helps it thicken.
Chicken broth: Balances out the cream and adds a light savory note.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but a pinch gives a gentle heat that wakes up the dish.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and garlic without overpowering the flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.

How To Make the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes before adding heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Top with extra parmesan, cracked pepper, and fresh herbs if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.

How to Serve and Store Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy. If you’re making it for guests, have everything ready to go so it hits the table fresh from the pan. It serves about 4 people generously.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

What to Serve With Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The ultimate sidekick to any pasta dish. Use it to mop up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar with parmesan and crunchy croutons cuts through the richness perfectly.

Roasted Asparagus

Add a touch of green and a little char to balance the creaminess.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp and creamy sauce.

Tomato Burrata Salad

Bright and fresh with juicy tomatoes, this side enhances the savory depth of the dish.

Lemon Zucchini

Sautéed or roasted, zucchini with lemon brings a light citrus touch.

Crispy Prosciutto Chips

If you want to wow, serve some prosciutto chips on the side for salty crunch.

Fruit-Infused Water

A refreshing palate cleanser to balance the richness of the pasta.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re obsessed with shrimp pasta like this, you’ll want to try these other weeknight winners:

Creamy Cajun Linguine if you’re in the mood for spice and Southern comfort.
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a smoky, meaty variation.
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta if you’re craving Caribbean flair.
Seafood Stuffed Shells for the ultimate comfort-meets-luxury dish.
Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli if you want more creamy seafood dinner ideas.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add some white wine to the sauce or go bold with extra red pepper? Did you swap the pasta for zucchini noodles?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other make delicious meals with less stress.

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