The Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a luscious, creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender shrimp bathed in a luxuriously rich Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and brightened by fresh herbs. This recipe is an absolute showstopper, designed to spark joy and maybe even inspire a proposal or two with its captivating flavors. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, inviting smiles, compliments, and seconds!

Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is half the magic of this recipe. Each one plays an essential role, whether adding bold flavor, silky texture, or a burst of color, making the Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a dish to savor and celebrate.

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or favorite type): Pick your preferred pasta shape to carry the creamy sauce perfectly.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that perfumes the entire dish.
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Creates a rich and silky sauce that envelops every strand of pasta.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Balances the creaminess with a subtle savory depth.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers nutty, cheesy richness essential for that signature creamy texture.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A herbaceous blend that brings brightness and complexity.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all flavors and sharpens the dish’s overall profile.
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish: Finishing touches that add vibrant color and fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil with a generous pinch of salt. This step is crucial because the salted water seasons the pasta from within, boosting flavor. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until just al dente — firm but tender. When draining, reserve about a cup of the cooking water to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be watchful here — shrimp cook quickly and you want them tender, not rubbery. Once done, transfer them from the skillet and set aside to make room for the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant without burning. Adding the chicken broth and heavy cream next creates the luscious base for the sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors perfectly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Whisk in the grated Parmesan slowly so the sauce turns smooth and velvety. Stir in your Italian seasoning, and don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. This is where the sauce truly comes alive with flavor — take your time to get it just right.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together carefully so the sauce coats every delicious piece. If the sauce feels a bit too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your ideal consistency. This step ensures the sauce hugs the pasta without being overly heavy.

Step 6: Serve

Divide the pasta onto plates and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. This final flourish brightens the dish and adds a pop of green that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible flavors.

How to Serve Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add a vibrant green color but also a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, a light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish everyone will love.

Side Dishes

To complement the creamy pasta, consider serving a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted vegetables. These sides offer contrast in texture and brightness, balancing the indulgent main dish perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in elegant pasta bowls or even in shallow wide-rimmed plates to showcase the sauce. Garnishing with edible flowers or finely chopped chives can elevate presentation to something truly memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this tasty pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

Because of the cream sauce, freezing is not ideal as sauces with dairy can separate upon thawing. However, if you want to freeze, do so with the shrimp and pasta separate from the sauce to maintain the best texture. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat as this can toughen the shrimp and curdle the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

What type of pasta works best in this dish?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are all great choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, letting you savor every bite.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it creamy and cheesy without dairy.

How spicy is the Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

This recipe is mild and rich by nature, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a spicy kick if you love a little heat.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?

Yes, you can cook the shrimp and pasta in advance, prepare the sauce, and combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh and delicious for your guests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, you simply have to try the Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Its creamy sauce, flavorful shrimp, and fresh finishes combine to create a meal that’s more than just dinner — it’s an experience worth sharing again and again. Invite your loved ones, get cozy in the kitchen, and watch this recipe become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 15 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp cooked in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce with Italian seasoning, served over perfectly al dente pasta and garnished with fresh herbs. It’s a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
Combine with Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water in small increments until desired consistency is reached.
Serve: Divide the pasta onto serving plates and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!

Notes

Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
Use fresh minced garlic and herbs for better flavor.
Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of Parmesan or cream used.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Italian-American