There is something truly magical about the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate. Creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spice, this dish brings together succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious tomato cream sauce that clings perfectly to tender rigatoni. Whether you’re aiming to impress someone special or just craving a comfort meal that feels fancy yet approachable, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe will quickly become your go-to for any occasion. It’s simplicity and elegance rolled into one unforgettable dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a red pan filled with a creamy pasta dish on a wooden surface. The pasta is large tubular rigatoni, pale yellow in color, mixed with several large shrimp that are pinkish-orange with black pepper seasoning on them. The creamy sauce is light beige and coats the pasta and shrimp evenly. There are small bits of green herbs scattered throughout, adding hints of color, and some pieces of what looks like cooked bacon or pancetta. The pasta and shrimp layers are mixed together, showing a rich, hearty texture with a slight gloss from the sauce photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to the incredible flavor of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer—rich butter and olive oil create a silky base, herbs and spices bring depth, and fresh shrimp elevates the dish with a sea-sweet note. Everything works in harmony to ensure vibrant color, enticing aroma, and perfect texture throughout.

11 ounces rigatoni: A sturdy pasta perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the shrimp beautifully.
1 tbsp unsalted butter: For a velvety finish and to enrich the sauce’s flavor.
1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein that brings sweet, tender seafood goodness.
1 tsp salt (divided): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
1 tsp black pepper (divided): Gives a gentle, warming bite to the dish.
1 tsp garlic powder: Builds savory depth and complements the fresh garlic.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Provides subtle smokiness and rich color to the shrimp.
4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and brightness.
3.5 ounces chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained): Adds tangy sweetness and chewy texture.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herby, earthy notes for authentic Italian flavor.
1 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the sauce to creamy perfection.
¾ cup low sodium chicken broth: Adds savory moisture without overpowering.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, dreamy texture that coats every pasta strand.
1 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste: Gives the sauce its rich, vibrant color and tang.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with a zesty pop.
¼ cup chopped basil leaves: Freshens up the sauce with herbal, sweet notes.
½ cup grated Parmesan: Melts in for that irresistible cheesy finish.
Chili flakes (for serving): Adds a touch of spice for those who like it a little lively.

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if that’s not already done. Toss them with sweet paprika, garlic powder, half of the salt and pepper. This simple marinade boosts flavor and sets the stage for a perfectly seasoned protein that will shine through the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

While the shrimp marinate, mince fresh garlic, grate your Parmesan cheese, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and tear or chop the basil leaves. Having everything ready before cooking makes the process smooth and fun—plus, fresh ingredients like these are key to that delightful burst of flavors in every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Boil your rigatoni in plenty of salted water until just al dente—firm but tender. The pasta’s firm texture provides the perfect contrast to the silky sauce, and its tubular shape traps the sauce wonderfully. Drain and set aside while you focus on the sauce.

Step 4: Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange those marinated shrimp in a single layer and sear for about one minute per side. This quick, hot sear locks in juices, creating a tender and flavorful crust. Once cooked, remove and keep them warm in a clean bowl.

Step 5: Build the Sauce Base

Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing just until fragrant. Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and the remaining salt and pepper. Let those flavors mingle for a minute before sprinkling in the flour to thicken—this step is the foundation of that rich, dreamy sauce.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to lift all the delicious browned bits left from searing shrimp—that’s pure flavor gold. Let the mixture simmer for about two minutes, thickening slightly and developing a deep, savory base.

Step 7: Add Cream and Tomatoes

Now pour in heavy cream and stir in concentrated tomato paste. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and let it simmer for around three minutes until slightly thickened—perfect timing for your pasta to be ready. This step transforms the sauce into a silky, satisfying coating for every morsel.

Step 8: Brighten and Finish

Stir in fresh lemon juice and basil leaves—these fresh notes brighten and lift the richness perfectly. Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan, melting it gently into the sauce for that irresistible cheesy touch before tossing your cooked rigatoni and shrimp right into the skillet for a perfect finish.

Step 9: Toss and Serve

Toss everything until the pasta and shrimp are well-coated in that heavenly sauce. For an extra kick, sprinkle chili flakes over the top just before serving—this is where you truly personalize the dish to your spice-loving heart’s content. Dig in right away for the best experience.

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick tube-shaped pasta pieces mixed with large shrimp coated in a creamy light orange sauce. The sauce has visible herbs and small bits of green leaves scattered throughout. Orange carrot slices and small mushrooms are mixed in, adding soft texture and color contrast. The dish is garnished with black pepper flakes and herbs on top. A silver fork is resting on the right edge of the bowl, and the bowl sits on a wooden table. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan are fantastic garnishes. Adding a pinch of chili flakes not only adds color but introduces a warming contrast to the creamy sauce. These small touches elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is ideal to scoop up any leftover sauce and complete this cozy, indulgent meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special night, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a sprig of basil nestled on top and a lemon wedge on the side for a customizable citrus burst. You can also portion the shrimp separately atop the pasta for a restaurant-style look that showcases those gorgeous pink jewels perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta and shrimp covered well to prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy again, the flavors will remain vibrant, though the texture of shrimp may soften slightly.

Freezing

The creamy nature of the sauce means freezing is possible but not ideal; it may separate upon thawing. If you do freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to one month, and thaw slowly overnight in the fridge to help maintain the texture as best as possible.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power to protect the delicate shrimp texture and keep that sauce silky and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti would work beautifully and offer different textures and presentations.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich and thick. Adding a bit of flour to thicken can help compensate for the lighter creaminess.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Frozen shrimp works well—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating and cooking to avoid excess liquid that could dilute the sauce.

How spicy is this dish? Can I control the heat?

The heat mainly comes from optional chili flakes sprinkled at the end, so you can easily make it mild or spicy depending on your preference. The rest of the dish focuses on creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to sweep someone off their feet or simply treat yourself to a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is your answer. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, complemented by juicy shrimp and fresh herbs, make every bite unforgettable. Give it a try—you might find yourself making it again and again!