Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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Creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of meal that might just seal the deal. It’s a luxurious combination of succulent shrimp nestled in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce with a touch of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs—all tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. It’s elegant enough for date night yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

This dish brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen, with simple ingredients and bold flavor. The luscious sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the seasoned shrimp add a pop of freshness and sweetness that balances the creaminess. One bite and you’ll understand exactly why it’s called Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!

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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This pasta is pure comfort food with an elevated twist. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is rich but not overpowering, with a touch of heat from crushed red pepper and brightness from sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings everything together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or when you want to impress guests without the stress.

The shrimp cook quickly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce, while the pasta provides a comforting base that makes this dish feel indulgent yet satisfying. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to your preferences—whether you want to go low-carb, gluten-free, or make it spicy.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Fettuccine is the classic pick for this dish because it holds the sauce so beautifully, giving you that creamy bite in every forkful. But feel free to get creative—linguine, spaghetti, or even penne can all work well. If you’re after a lighter version, try zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta. The real star here is the sauce and shrimp, so any pasta that grabs onto that creamy goodness will do the trick!

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Ingredients for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating depth and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shrimp (large, peeled and deveined) – The protein highlight. Juicy and tender, shrimp absorb the flavor of the sauce beautifully.
• Fettuccine pasta – A wide, hearty pasta perfect for creamy sauces.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides a bold, aromatic base.
• Butter & olive oil – Used to cook the shrimp and build the sauce for a buttery richness.
• Heavy cream – Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.
• Grated parmesan cheese – Adds nutty depth and thickens the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) – Bring a touch of sweetness and umami.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For a subtle, spicy kick.
• Chicken broth – Lightens the sauce and deepens the flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the entire dish.
• Fresh parsley (chopped) – For a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil and sauté the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat well. Let it all simmer together for a minute or two so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a bit more parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish serves 4 hearty portions, making it ideal for a family dinner or a special meal with friends. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of parsley and parmesan on top.

For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture. It’s not recommended to freeze, as the sauce may separate.

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What to Serve With Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. The crisp exterior and buttery garlic flavor complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing is a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Roasted Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and roasted until tender, asparagus adds a bright and slightly earthy note to the meal.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors without overpowering the shrimp and cream sauce.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offer a simple and colorful side that won’t compete with the main dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Excess moisture can dilute the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then cook the pasta and assemble everything when ready to eat.

3. What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, but note it will alter the flavor.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust to taste or omit entirely for a no-heat version.

5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the very end just to warm through. Overcooking pre-cooked shrimp can make them rubbery.

For more easy dinner ideas and creamy pasta recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta too!

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