Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Proposal Worthy Pasta

Posted on January 30, 2026

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that feels luxurious, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful all at once. Enter Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—a pasta dish that’s not only a feast for the senses but also the perfect centerpiece for a romantic evening at home. Imagine a cozy dinner for two, soft candlelight flickering across the table, and the aroma of succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to tender pasta. Inspired by the legendary “Marry Me Chicken” trend, this version with shrimp takes it to the next level. Whether you’re aiming to impress a special someone or just want to treat yourself to an indulgent meal, this dish promises elegance, flavor, and a touch of drama worthy of a proposal.

This recipe balances sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, all while being surprisingly easy to make. The creamy sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs wraps every strand of pasta in pure decadence. And don’t worry—you don’t need to be a professional chef to achieve restaurant-quality results. With a handful of simple ingredients, some basic cooking techniques, and a touch of love, you can serve up a pasta that might just steal hearts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dreamy pasta to life:

12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or your favorite pasta
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sear the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Build the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and remaining olive oil. Sauté the shallots until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.

4. Deglaze and Simmer:
Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Return shrimp to the skillet, gently mixing everything together.

7. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty brightness.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly, and overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep a close eye during searing.
Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic, parsley, and shrimp make a huge flavor difference.
Sun-dried tomatoes for depth – They add a slight sweetness and acidity that balances the creaminess.
Reserve pasta water – It helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency and binds the pasta beautifully.
Adjust spice to taste – Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle kick that elevates the dish.

FAQs About Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately a day in advance. Store shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the sauce in another container. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on low heat, toss in pasta, and then add the shrimp to prevent overcooking. This method maintains flavor and texture, making it perfect for a stress-free dinner.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. Coconut milk is also an option for a dairy-free version, though it will slightly change the flavor. The key is to maintain a creamy texture that clings to the pasta without becoming watery.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent proper searing and can water down your sauce. Also, make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thawed shrimp cook faster than frozen ones.

4. What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Fettuccine is ideal because its wide ribbons hold the creamy sauce perfectly. However, linguine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti can work beautifully. The trick is to choose a pasta that allows the sauce to cling, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.

Why This Recipe Is Truly Proposal-Worthy

There’s a reason this dish earned the nickname “Marry Me Pasta.” Its flavors are bold yet balanced, indulgent yet comforting. The creamy sauce, garlicky aroma, tender shrimp, and slight tang from sun-dried tomatoes create a harmonious blend that feels special—perfect for celebrating love or simply elevating an ordinary evening.

Beyond taste, the visual appeal is impressive. Vibrant pink shrimp atop golden pasta, flecks of green parsley, and the subtle shimmer of Parmesan make this dish feel restaurant-quality. It’s the kind of meal that invites admiration and compliments, making it ideal for an intimate date night or a family dinner where you want to impress.

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy. You don’t need complex techniques or rare ingredients. With a little planning, you can prepare a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to make, while actually coming together in under 40 minutes. That’s the beauty of this recipe—it combines simplicity with sophistication, making every bite feel luxurious.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cream. For added indulgence, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or drizzle with a touch of olive oil just before serving.

If you’re hosting a special evening, consider soft background music, candlelight, and elegant plating. Even simple touches like folding a napkin into a heart shape or arranging lemon wedges artistically can elevate the dining experience. This isn’t just pasta; it’s a dining experience that creates memories.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is more than just preparing food—it’s a way to show care, express creativity, and bring people together. Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta embodies all of these qualities. From its luxurious texture to its rich flavors, this dish is an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a romantic evening, a celebration, or simply to treat yourself, it promises satisfaction in every bite.

One of the joys of cooking this pasta is its versatility. You can adapt it to suit your preferences—swap shrimp for chicken or scallops, adjust the creaminess, or tweak the seasoning. Every variation still delivers the same comfort, indulgence, and elegance that make this recipe unforgettable.

Finally, the experience of enjoying this pasta goes beyond taste. It’s about the ambiance, the presentation, and the joy of sharing a meal made with care. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this recipe invites you to create a dish that’s both approachable and impressive. Serve it with confidence, and you might just hear someone say, “Wow, this is amazing”—or even, “Will you marry me?” It’s that kind of pasta.