I absolutely love this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe because it feels like a little celebration in every bite. The creamy, garlicky sauce married with perfectly cooked shrimp and tender linguine just melts together so beautifully-I always find myself craving it on special occasions or when I want an easy dinner that still feels fancy. You ll find that the burst of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil really amps up the flavor, making this dish unforgettable.
When I first tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised how quick it was to pull together, yet the flavors were so layered and satisfying. Whether it s a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe hits the mark, and I m excited to share how to make it come alive in your kitchen, too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes but tastes like a slow-cooked masterpiece.
- Burst of Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil bring freshness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Shrimp Perfection: Seasoned and cooked just right for juicy, tender bites with no chewiness.
- Family Favorite: This dish has won over kids and adults alike in my household every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together like a dream, balancing creamy, savory, and fresh notes. When shopping, look for good-quality shrimp and fresh basil-they really make a difference in this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe.
- Linguine Pasta: This flat, wide noodle holds the sauce beautifully, but fettuccine works just as well.
- Shrimp: I recommend peeled and deveined, fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for ease and best texture.
- Italian Seasoning: A simple blend of herbs to add that typical Italian flair without extra fuss.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for cooking the shrimp.
- Butter: Key for that rich, silky sauce foundation.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the sauce with classic flavor.
- Flour: Acts as a thickener to give the sauce that creamy consistency.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and body to the sauce; homemade or store-bought works great.
- Heavy Cream: The heart of the sauce’s creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best here for smooth melting and that nutty flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Drain and chop these for a tangy, sweet pop in every bite.
- Fresh Basil: Adds brightness and herbaceous freshness to finish the dish.
- Paprika: A subtle smoky note that rounds out the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
Variations
I like to mix things up depending on what mood I m in or what ingredients I have on hand. Feel free to adjust this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe to make it your own-you’ll find it’s a versatile base that invites creativity.
- For a lighter twist: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk – I ve done this when I wanted a lighter sauce and it still came out delicious.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp, which my family loves for that little heat surprise.
- Vegetarian version: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts; just cook them well in the seasoned olive oil before adding the sauce.
- Different pasta shapes: Penne or farfalle also work great if linguine isn t your favorite or if that s what s in the pantry.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prepare Shrimp
Start by cooking your linguine according to the package instructions-al dente is perfect so it holds up well in the sauce. Meanwhile, season your peeled and deveined shrimp with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook here, because shrimp can quickly become rubbery. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside-you’ll come back to them shortly.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (this is where all the flavor magic happens), melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and sauté it just about 30 seconds until fragrant-don t let it burn! Then whisk in the flour to make a roux, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes so the raw flour taste cooks off. Now, gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream, making sure to keep stirring so you get a smooth sauce. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency-you ll notice it coat the back of a spoon nicely.
Step 3: Add Cheese, Tomatoes, and Seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in grated parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep whisking and gently warming the sauce until it s smooth and rich. The combination of cheese melting into the sauce, balanced by the bright basil and tangy tomatoes, is what makes this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe such a showstopper.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Time to reunite everything! Toss the cooked shrimp and pasta back into the pan with your luscious sauce. Stir gently to coat every strand and shrimp piece evenly. Cook together on medium heat for another 3-4 minutes so all those flavors marry beautifully. Garnish with extra fresh basil to brighten it up before serving-trust me, it makes a big difference.
Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe
- Don t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook super fast-watch closely and remove them as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn t melt the same way; fresh parmesan brings creaminess and flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it and add silkiness.
- Don t Skip Fresh Basil: It gives the dish brightness and aroma that dried herbs just can t replace.
How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping the dish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan to make it look and taste even more luxurious. A little drizzle of good olive oil on top right before serving adds a lovely sheen and depth that feels restaurant-worthy. Sometimes, I also crack a few grinds of fresh black pepper for subtle heat and contrast.
Side Dishes
My go-to sides are simple and fresh: a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic asparagus. Garlic bread is another no-fail partner to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce. In cooler months, I sometimes add a side of lightly sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli to keep things balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like serving the shrimp pasta in pretty bowls with edible flowers or microgreens for that wow factor. Another time, I plated individual portions on a bed of fresh arugula to add peppery freshness underneath. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts brings a nice crunch and unexpected texture that guests always ask about!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers of this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe, I transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce thickens when chilled, so before reheating, I like to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it-otherwise, it can get a bit heavy.
Freezing
While I don t typically freeze this dish because the cream sauce changes texture when frozen, the shrimp and sauce can be frozen separately if needed. You ll want to freeze the sauce and shrimp flat in sealed bags for up to one month, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore the silky texture. Stir frequently and avoid high heat to prevent the cream from breaking or the shrimp from getting rubbery. In my experience, reheating in the microwave can work but sometimes dries out the shrimp, so stovetop is best.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen shrimp for this Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
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What pasta type works best in this recipe?
Linguine is classic here because its flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce really well. However, fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti will work depending on your preference or what you have available.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use a non-dairy butter substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor, though the sauce texture may be slightly different.
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How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Cook shrimp over medium-high heat just until they turn pink and opaque-usually 6-8 minutes depending on size. Remove them from heat immediately to prevent a rubbery texture.
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Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just store the pasta and shrimp in airtight containers separately if possible. Reheat gently and add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce each time.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it s proof that you don t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create something elegant and deeply satisfying. I hope it becomes one of those dishes you turn to when you want to wow your family or friends without the fuss. Give it a try-you’ll enjoy the creamy, garlicky, vibrant flavors as much as I do. Trust me, once you make it, it might just earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
PrintMarry Me Shrimp with Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp cooked with Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil in a rich parmesan cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked linguine pasta. This recipe combines succulent seafood with a luscious, garlicky sauce that’s perfect for an elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 8 ounces of linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add 3 teaspoons minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Roux: Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to the butter and garlic mixture to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Thicken Sauce: Slowly whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Flavor the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ⅓ cup fresh basil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking gently until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is heated through.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp and linguine pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together in the skillet and sauté for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to be fully coated with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy while hot.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they should just turn pink and opaque to remain tender.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor in the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil work best for this recipe; be sure to drain well before chopping.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg