Description
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is your answer. This easy dinner recipe combines juicy, sautéed shrimp with a luxurious parmesan cream sauce that clings perfectly to tender pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add sun-dried tomatoes and cook another minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Add pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if needed.
6. Return shrimp to the pan, mix well, and heat through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Be sure not to overcook the shrimp — they cook quickly and will become rubbery if left too long.
For added depth, use a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic.
If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain excess oil before adding.
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.