Dreamy “Marry Me” Shrimp Pasta Recipe That Seals The Deal

Seafood enthusiasts swoon over this irresistible creamy marry me shrimp pasta that promises to steal hearts at first bite.

Tender succulent shrimp nestle perfectly among silky strands of pasta, creating a romantic culinary experience.

Rich garlic-infused cream sauce blankets each delectable morsel with luxurious flavor.

The combination of fresh ingredients brings a restaurant-quality meal straight to your kitchen.

Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty depth that complements the sweet shrimp beautifully.

Busy home cooks will adore how quickly this impressive dish comes together.

One forkful of this decadent pasta guarantees culinary love at first taste.

New Ways to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a creamy, plant-based version.
• Spicy Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or crab meat for a different oceanic protein experience with the same luxurious sauce.
• Low-Carb Ocean Bowl: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate intake while keeping the rich, creamy flavors intact.
• Veggie Protein Alternative: Use firm tofu or chickpeas as a protein replacement for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation that maintains the sauce's robust profile.

Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Pasta

• Romantic Dinner Spotlight: Create an intimate setting with soft candlelight and elegant dinnerware to elevate this luscious shrimp pasta experience.
• Herb Garden Freshness: Sprinkle additional fresh chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving to add vibrant color and bright, zesty flavor profiles.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the creamy sauce with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which beautifully balances the rich, decadent pasta.
• Side Dish Companions: Serve alongside a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic bread to provide a delightful contrast to the main dish's creamy texture.

How to Store Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep pasta and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor.
• Place portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little extra cream or broth to restore sauce consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that cream-based sauces may slightly separate when frozen, but stirring will help restore texture.

FAQs

• What makes the sauce creamy and rich?

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly, giving the dish its signature creamy texture.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water into the sauce.

• How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick of heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or omit them entirely. For more heat, you can increase the quantity to suit your taste.

Reasons to Savor Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Whip Up Quickly: This recipe offers a speedy solution for busy weeknight dinners, taking minimal preparation and cooking time to deliver a restaurant-quality meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The creamy sauce and succulent shrimp create an irresistible combination that appeals to both adults and kids, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Elevate Everyday Cooking: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, home cooks can transform basic pantry staples into a luxurious pasta dish that feels sophisticated and indulgent.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows for personal touches like adjusting spice levels, swapping protein, or adding extra vegetables to suit individual taste preferences.

Ingredients for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the primary protein and rich flavor for this creamy pasta dish.

• Pasta: The foundation of the recipe that absorbs the delicious creamy sauce and provides a satisfying texture.

• Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Creamy liquids that create a smooth and rich sauce base for the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth and a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.

• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic base flavor to the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a subtle heat and slight kick to the creamy sauce.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing shrimp and creating a base for the sauce.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color to the dish.

How to Prepare Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook the pasta in salted water following the package guidelines.

Once tender, drain completely and set aside, allowing the pasta to rest while you prepare the magical sauce.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Gently place shrimp into the hot pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until they transform into a beautiful pink color and are fully cooked.

Transfer the shrimp to a separate plate, keeping them warm and ready for the next delicious step.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic’s Aromatic Magic

In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, add minced garlic.

Let it dance in the pan for about a minute, releasing its intoxicating fragrance and creating a flavor foundation for the sauce.

Step 4: Create Dreamy Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes

Allow the mixture to simmer and bubble, stirring occasionally, until the sauce transforms into a luxurious, thickened consistency that clings lovingly to the ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp in Sauce Harmony

Gently add the cooked shrimp and pasta into the creamy sauce.

Use a spatula to tenderly coat every single piece, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.

Step 6: Final Flavor Flourish

Sprinkle salt and black pepper to enhance the dish’s taste.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the sauce is at its most seductive.

Tips for Creamy Shrimp Pasta Lovers

• Watch carefully to prevent overcooking – shrimp turn rubbery when cooked too long, so remove from heat immediately once they turn pink.
• Use full-fat heavy cream for a richer, more stable sauce that won't separate during cooking.
• Reduce or eliminate red pepper flakes for a milder version, or add extra for those who love heat.
• Replace shrimp with chicken or white fish if seafood isn't preferred, maintaining similar cooking techniques.
• Chop garlic and measure ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent marry me shrimp pasta promises a romantic culinary journey through creamy, garlicky goodness. Rich flavors meld perfectly, creating an irresistible dish that enchants diners with its simple yet elegant Mediterranean-inspired charm.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & Seafood:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pasta & Grains:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)

Seasonings, Dairy & Liquids:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare pasta al dente according to package guidelines, then drain and reserve.
2. Sear shrimp in a heated skillet with olive oil over medium temperature for 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into a vibrant pink hue and achieve complete doneness. Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
3. Using the identical skillet, introduce minced garlic and allow it to release its aromatic essence for approximately 60 seconds.
4. Create a luxurious sauce by incorporating heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Allow mixture to gently simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and develops a velvety consistency.
5. Reunite the cooked shrimp and pasta within the skillet, gently tumbling them to ensure complete coverage with the creamy sauce.
6. Elevate the flavor profile by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Scatter chopped fresh parsley across the dish for a vibrant finish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Opt for large, tail-on shrimp for better presentation and easier eating experience.
• Toast garlic gently to prevent burning and maintain a sweet, mellow flavor profile.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for superior melting and richer taste compared to pre-packaged versions.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, adding gradually for controlled heat level.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for lighter version without compromising creamy texture.
• Replace regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta options.
• Enhance protein content by adding sautéed chicken or white fish alongside shrimp.
• For dairy-free version, substitute cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 553 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg