Marry Me Shrimp Pasta – A Dish So Good, You’ll Say “I Do”

If there’s one dish that can make someone fall head over heels in love, it’s this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.

Think of juicy, marinated shrimp tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a recipe that turns an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience.

What Makes My Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe Unique?

You may have seen other shrimp pasta recipes, but this version stands out. I use jumbo shrimp, marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, lemon, and a touch of smoked paprika for a deep, irresistible taste. Instead of just heavy cream, I combine cream cheese and Parmesan, which creates an ultra-luxurious sauce that clings to every bite.

To elevate the dish even further, I add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy punch and a hint of Cajun seasoning for a gentle kick of spice. Plus, I’ll share some game-changing substitutions and variations that make this dish adaptable for any dietary need.

Ingredients List for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this heavenly seafood pasta dish:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, bow tie pasta, or spaghetti)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional but recommended)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ½ tsp dried Italian herbs
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to switch things up, here are some easy swaps and add-ins:

• Pasta Variations: Not a fan of fettuccine? Use penne, linguine, or bow tie pasta for a different texture.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Extra Protein: Want to turn this into a chicken and shrimp pasta dish? Add grilled or pan-seared chicken for extra heartiness.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or peas to add more nutrients.
• Spice Level: If you love heat, toss in more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in all the flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Pour in chicken broth, letting it simmer for 2 minutes.

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir continuously until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and mix everything together. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

1. Overcooking the Shrimp – Shrimp cooks FAST. If you leave it on the heat too long, it will turn rubbery.
2. Skipping the Shrimp Marinade – Taking time to season your shrimp makes a huge difference.
3. Using Pre-Grated Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother, silkier sauce.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve in shallow pasta bowls for an elegant restaurant feel.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
• A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing.
• A sparkling drink like lemonade or fruit-infused water.

Extra Recipe Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Meal Prep: Cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time; store separately and mix fresh with pasta before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

Q: What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
A: Fettuccine, linguine, or bow tie pasta work best since they hold the creamy sauce well.

Q: Can I make this without cream?
A: Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt or a mix of chicken broth and a cornstarch slurry for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is it. Whether you’re making it for date night, family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.

Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if someone asks for seconds—or maybe even an engagement ring! 💍🍝