Name: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or your choice); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

The creamy sauce is packed with flavor from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs.
Shrimp adds a delicate, savory seafood element that pairs beautifully with pasta.
It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it great for weeknights or entertaining.
It’s easily customizable with vegetables or other proteins.
One bite is all it takes to fall in love with this dish — hence the name!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta of choice (penne, linguine, or fettuccine work well)
shrimp, peeled and deveined
sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
garlic, minced
heavy cream
grated parmesan cheese
olive oil (or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes)
Italian seasoning
smoked paprika
salt and pepper
fresh spinach or basil (optional)
crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a bit of Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese and remaining Italian seasoning.
Add fresh spinach or basil if using, and allow it to wilt into the sauce.
Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and mix well until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use chicken instead of shrimp for a Marry Me Chicken Pasta twist.
Add sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for more depth.
Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta depending on dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne, linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all great choices for holding onto the creamy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, but for the best texture, assemble and serve fresh.

Is it very spicy?

The base recipe is mild. Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. For extra richness, stick with heavy cream.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas make excellent additions.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit or replace the cheese with a vegan option.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer a few extra minutes or stir in more cheese for a thicker consistency.

Does this dish freeze well?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to one month. Reheat gently with added cream.

What side dishes go well with this?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables are great sides for this meal.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dreamy, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this pasta delivers big flavor in every bite. It’s a meal that’s sure to win hearts.