Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta – Easy, Irresistible Favorite

If you’re craving something that tastes like it came straight from a fancy Italian restaurant but don’t have the time (or budget) for that kind of night, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is here to save dinner—and maybe even your relationship. This pasta is pure comfort in a bowl: juicy shrimp, silky parmesan cream sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes that add a punch of flavor.

It’s the kind of dish that gets people talking, forks twirling, and maybe even a few “marry me” jokes thrown around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or date night in, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta makes you feel like a kitchen superstar without breaking a sweat. The best part? It’s ready in 30 minutes flat. So go ahead—pour that glass of wine, light a candle, and let dinner do the flirting for you.

Table of Contents

What is Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a decadent, creamy pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich parmesan cream sauce, seasoned perfectly with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs. The name “Marry Me” comes from how irresistibly good it is—supposedly so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up at home.

The shrimp are lightly sautéed until pink and tender, while the sauce develops a luxurious texture that hugs every noodle. The combination of cream, butter, and parmesan gives it a velvety base, while sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning add layers of tangy, savory flavor. In short, it’s comfort food meets romance, and it’s every bit as swoon-worthy as it sounds.

Reasons to Try Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Why should you make this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta tonight? First, it’s fast—just 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s packed with bold, irresistible flavors. The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of shrimp and the tang of sun-dried tomatoes. Third, it’s versatile. You can serve it as a cozy family dinner, a date-night showstopper, or a weekend indulgence.

Plus, it’s one of those rare dishes that looks like it took all day but actually comes together faster than most takeout orders. If you love recipes like Easy Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta or Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce, this one’s going to become your new favorite comfort pasta. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for anyone lucky enough to share your dinner table.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions to Make Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy, this Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta will win you over. Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating this dreamy, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Let’s kick things off by boiling a big pot of salted water. Once it’s rolling, add your pasta of choice—penne, fettuccine, or even linguine work beautifully here. Cook it just until al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a little bite. This is key to great texture later when it mixes with the creamy sauce. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of pasta water. That starchy liquid gold will come in handy for loosening the sauce later. If you’d like more detailed pasta tips, check out our High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta—it’s packed with tricks for perfect pasta texture every time.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp Just Right

In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. While that melts together, pat your shrimp dry with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan in a single layer.

Cook each side for about 1–2 minutes, just until they turn pink and slightly curled. You don’t want to overcook them, or they’ll toughen up. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. For a similar seafood vibe, try my Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken—it has that same seared, flavor-packed finish that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Without cleaning the skillet (yes, leave all those delicious shrimp bits), add the remaining olive oil and butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen should start smelling incredible right about now. Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. This step is where the magic begins, as the oil from the tomatoes infuses everything with a rich, slightly tangy depth. If you love this garlicky base, you’ll also adore my Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce, which uses a similar technique to build layers of flavor.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Now it’s time to transform that flavor base into the star of the show—the creamy sauce. Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes. The key to this step-by-step process is patience—give the sauce time to come together. You’ll know it’s ready when it clings gently to your spoon and smells like something out of an Italian bistro. For a lighter but equally comforting version, take a peek at our Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Soup—it has a similar creamy texture but with a cozy, soupy twist.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce looks rich and velvety, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss it around gently with tongs, making sure every noodle gets evenly coated in that dreamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash or two of your reserved pasta water. The starch helps the sauce stick to the pasta while keeping it silky smooth. This is where everything starts coming together, and it’s absolutely worth the time to get the consistency just right.

Step 6: Bring Back the Shrimp

Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the shrimp soak up the creamy, garlicky sauce. Allow it all to simmer for another minute or two—just long enough for the shrimp to reheat and mingle with the other flavors. At this point, the sauce should be glossy and luscious, clinging perfectly to the pasta and shrimp. Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley on top for that pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve Like a Pro

Your Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is ready to steal the spotlight. Spoon it into warm bowls and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese). Pair it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For another creamy pasta option that’s just as cozy, check out our Easy Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta.

Step 8: Savor the Moment

Take a deep breath and admire your handiwork—you’ve just made a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, a special someone, or just yourself (hey, self-love counts too), this step-by-step recipe delivers every time. The creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta make it a dish worth savoring.

If you enjoy recipes like this, you might also love my Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Delight for another comforting twist on a creamy dinner favorite.

What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with something light makes it shine even more. A crisp Caesar salad or simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the creaminess beautifully. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce (because let’s be honest, you’ll want every last drop). If you’re going for a full restaurant-style dinner, finish with a light dessert like No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake for the perfect sweet ending. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon adds the final touch of freshness.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

First, don’t overcook your shrimp—they cook lightning-fast and can turn rubbery if left too long. Second, grate your Parmesan fresh instead of using the pre-shredded stuff. It melts better and gives your sauce that restaurant-quality texture. Third, don’t skip the pasta water! It’s the secret weapon for a creamy, glossy sauce that clings to every noodle. And finally, season as you go. Taste the sauce before adding the pasta, then again after combining everything. Adjust with salt, pepper, or a sprinkle more cheese to get the flavor just right.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

If you somehow end up with leftovers (rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the shrimp and make the sauce separate. This pasta also reheats surprisingly well for lunch the next day—just pack it with a side salad and you’ve got a meal that still feels special, even after a long day at work.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I substitute the cream? Yes, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option.
Can I make it spicy? Definitely. Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
What’s the best pasta shape? Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni all work beautifully for this sauce.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s quick, indulgent, and full of flavor—perfect for when you want something special without all the fuss. If you loved this recipe, try my Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Soup next—it’s another creamy comfort classic that’ll warm your soul. Cooking should feel joyful, not stressful, and this recipe captures that spirit perfectly.

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