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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta – Creamy, Garlicky & Absolutely Delicious

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dish that instantly feels special—luxurious, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and tossed with tender pasta for a meal that’s elegant enough for date night yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s no surprise this recipe has earned such a bold name. What makes this pasta unforgettable is the perfect balance of flavors. Garlic builds a savory base, cream brings silky richness, and Parmesan adds depth and umami. The shrimp cook quickly, staying tender and juicy, while the sauce clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. Every bite feels indulgent without being heavy. If you’re looking for a romantic seafood pasta that’s guaranteed to impress, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is absolutely worth making.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Seafood
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
Pasta
  • 10 oz pasta fettuccine, linguine, or penne
Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
Cheese
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
Aromatics
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
Cooking Fat
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
  • Fresh parsley finely chopped
  • These ingredients create a creamy savory, and restaurant-worthy shrimp pasta.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2:
  1. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3:
  1. Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 4:
  1. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 5:
  1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6:
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 7:
  1. Add the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 8:
  1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 9:
  1. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
Step 10:
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 11:
  1. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix everything together.
Step 12:
  1. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 13:
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer:
Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
🥄 Variations
Extra garlic: Add one more garlic clove
Cheese-forward: Increase Parmesan slightly
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes
Pasta swap: Use any pasta shape you prefer
Lighter version: Use a little less cream
These variations keep the essence of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta while allowing easy customization.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why is it called Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Because it’s rich, impressive, and irresistible.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry first.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s mild unless you add spice.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s creamy and family-friendly.
What pasta works best?
Long pasta or short shapes both work well.
Do I cook shrimp ahead of time?
No, they cook quickly in the skillet.
Does the sauce thicken naturally?
Yes, as it simmers and rests.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet.
Is this good for special occasions?
Absolutely—it looks and tastes elegant.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach or mushrooms work well.
🏁 Conclusion
This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort—creamy, garlicky, and completely satisfying. With tender shrimp, silky sauce, and perfectly coated pasta, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. One bite is all it takes to understand why this recipe lives up to its name.