Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta earned its name for good reason - it's the kind of dish that inspires marriage proposals. Plump, juicy shrimp nestled in a velvety parmesan cream sauce, complemented by the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic garlic, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The balance of richness and flavor creates a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for both special occasions and satisfying weeknight dinners when you need something extraordinary without the fuss.

I first made this pasta for my husband on our anniversary when I was short on time but wanted something special. The look on his face after the first bite told me everything - this recipe was going into our permanent rotation. We've since served it to countless dinner guests who always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients - What You'll Need:

• 8 oz penne pasta: The ridges and tube shape capture the creamy sauce perfectly; look for bronze-die pasta for the best texture
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh is best, but frozen works well too; aim for medium to large size (21-25 count) for meatier bites
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality oil here; it forms the flavor foundation of the dish
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps prevent the olive oil from burning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The fresher the better; avoid pre-minced for the brightest flavor
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Oil-packed varieties add extra flavor; drain but save a spoonful of their oil to add depth
• 1 cup heavy cream: The key to the silky sauce; don't substitute with half-and-half or milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better than pre-packaged; the aged flavor adds complexity
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A time-saving blend that adds herbal notes throughout
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle warmth rather than heat; adjust to your preference
• Salt and black pepper: Season at every stage for the most developed flavor
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then generously salt it until it tastes like seawater. Add your penne and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook until just al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Before draining, scoop out 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water - this is liquid gold for adjusting your sauce later. Drain the pasta but don't rinse it; the starch helps the sauce cling better.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

While your pasta cooks, pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels - this ensures they'll sear rather than steam. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter stops foaming. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and start to curl. Be careful not to overcook! Remove them immediately to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

3. Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet (don't wipe it clean - those shrimp bits add flavor!), add the remaining tablespoon each of oil and butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for another minute, allowing them to release their intense flavors into the oil.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Once incorporated, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to gently simmer (never boil) for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that Parmesan adds saltiness.

5. Combine and Finish the Dish

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, allowing them to warm through in the sauce for about a minute. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before transferring to serving dishes.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley and add a final light grating of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately in warmed bowls for the best experience, as the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

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I keep sun-dried tomatoes as a pantry staple specifically for this recipe. My mother-in-law, who typically avoids creamy pastas, requested this dish three times during her last visit. She even asked for the recipe to take back home to Arizona, which might be the highest compliment a dish can receive!

The Perfect Shrimp Selection

Choosing the right shrimp makes all the difference in this recipe. While many home cooks reach for pre-cooked shrimp to save time, raw shrimp absorbs flavors much better and allows you to control the cooking process precisely. Look for shrimp labeled "chemical-free" or "no added phosphates" for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight rather than under running water, which can make them waterlogged and affect both flavor and texture. Remember that the "count number" on shrimp packages indicates how many shrimp make up a pound – so 16/20 count will give you larger, meatier pieces than 31/40 count.

Pasta Variations to Try

This versatile sauce works beautifully with various pasta shapes, each offering a slightly different eating experience. Fettuccine creates a classic, elegant presentation where the flat noodles become completely coated in the luxurious sauce. For a lighter option, try whole wheat pasta which adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Gluten-free alternatives like chickpea or lentil pasta boost the protein content while accommodating dietary restrictions. The key to perfect pasta, regardless of type, is cooking it just until al dente and adding it directly to the sauce to finish cooking, allowing it to absorb those final flavor notes and creating a more cohesive dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

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This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be partially prepared in advance if you're planning a special dinner. The sauce can be made up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator – simply reheat gently on the stove and thin with a splash of cream or pasta water if needed. If storing leftovers, keep the pasta and sauce together but add freshly cooked shrimp just before serving to prevent them from becoming tough or rubbery. When reheating, do so gently over low heat with a splash of cream, or use a microwave at 50% power with a damp paper towel cover to maintain moisture. The flavors often deepen overnight, making day-two pasta sometimes even more delicious than the original serving.

Common Questions

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in this pasta dish?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half mixed with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening. For a lighter option, try evaporated milk or a mixture of milk and cream cheese. Plant-based alternatives include full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, though these will alter the flavor profile slightly.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this pasta?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Thaw completely before cooking by placing in a colander under cold running water for 5-7 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly rather than steam. The cooking time remains the same as with fresh shrimp.

→ What pasta shapes work best with this creamy sauce?

While penne is recommended, any medium-sized pasta with ridges or cavities works well as they catch and hold the creamy sauce. Great alternatives include farfalle (bow ties), rigatoni, fusilli, or orecchiette. Long pastas like fettuccine or linguine also complement the sauce beautifully.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

For best results, prepare the components separately up to a day ahead. Cook the pasta al dente and refrigerate with a touch of olive oil. Prepare the shrimp and sauce, storing separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add the pasta with a splash of water or cream to loosen, then fold in the shrimp just long enough to heat through.

→ What sides pair well with Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

This rich pasta pairs beautifully with light, acidic side dishes. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus with a touch of balsamic glaze, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For wine pairing, try a crisp Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay to complement the creamy texture.

→ Why is it called 'Marry Me' Shrimp Pasta?

The name comes from the dish's reputation for being so delicious that it might prompt a marriage proposal! This style of naming implies that the dish is incredibly impressive and irresistible – perfect for romantic dinners or when you want to wow someone with your cooking skills.