Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 12 oz. uncooked Calamarata or rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoons oil from sun-dried tomato jar; 1 lb. jumbo peeled and deveined tail-on raw shrimp; 1/3 cup coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, plus 2 tablespoons oil from jar, divided (from 1 [8-oz.] jar); 1 1/2 Tbsp. sun-dried tomato spread (from 1 [9-oz.] jar); 1 Tbsp. grated garlic (from about 5 large garlic cloves); 1 1/2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup dry white wine; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 3 oz.); 1 1/2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning; 3/4 tsp. smoked paprika; Chopped fresh basil

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Have you ever made a dish so good, its prompted a marriage proposal from your dinner guest? Were not making any promises here, but this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta (based on the flavors of the famed Marry Me Chicken) might just do the trick. Our Marry Me Shrimp Pasta recipe combines the robust flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and jumbo shrimp with a luxurious, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. According to recipe tester Liv Dansky, "it tastes and feels fancy" even if it only takes half an hour to prepare.

Ingredients

12 ounces uncooked calamarata or rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons oil from sun-dried tomato jar
1 pound jumbo peeled and deveined tail-on raw shrimp
1/3 cup coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil
1 tablespoons sun-dried tomato spread
5 large garlic cloves, grated
1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup dry white wine
1 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Chopped fresh basil (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink on both sides and just cooked through, turning once, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the shrimp to a separate bowl and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes, tomato spread, and grated garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the flour and continue cooking, stirring constantly, for an additional 1 minute.
Step 5: Whisk in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook, undisturbed, for about 2 minutes, until slightly reduced.
Step 6: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Whisk until fully combined. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking, whisking occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Stir frequently until everything is evenly coated and heated through, about 3 minutes.
Step 8: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil (optional) and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Total Fat	16g (21% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	7g (37% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	107mg (36% Daily Value)
Sodium	707mg (31% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	20g (7% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	15g (30% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	6mg (6% Daily Value)
Calcium	152mg (12% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (7% Daily Value)
Potassium	256mg (5% Daily Value)

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

History and Origin of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

The "Marry Me" dish concept originated in American cuisine in the early 2010s, initially popularized with chicken as a playful, romantic recipe meant to impress a loved one. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a seafood adaptation that retains the signature creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce but substitutes tender jumbo shrimp for chicken. This version gained popularity for its combination of rich flavors and quick preparation, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its name reflects the dramatic, love-themed presentation that often elicits playful proposals or simply delight at the table.

Regional Variations and Features

Although fundamentally an American dish, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta incorporates Mediterranean ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, giving it a Southern European flair. Some variations swap Calamarata or rigatoni for linguine or fettuccine, while others incorporate local seafood such as crab or scallops depending on coastal availability. In certain regions, chefs may add a splash of Marsala wine or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to highlight local culinary tastes, giving each version a unique regional twist while maintaining the creamy, flavorful sauce that defines the dish.

Differences from Similar Dishes

This recipe is distinct from traditional shrimp pasta dishes like Shrimp Alfredo or Shrimp Scampi due to its use of sun-dried tomato spread, Parmesan cheese, and a slightly smoky paprika seasoning, creating a more complex, layered flavor profile. Unlike Shrimp Scampi, which is light and garlicky with lemon, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta relies on a rich, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta, offering a more indulgent, restaurant-style experience. The balance between tangy sun-dried tomatoes and the sweetness of jumbo shrimp sets it apart from simpler seafood pastas.

Typical Serving Occasions

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is usually served as a main course for dinner, often in home settings or casual restaurants. Its presentation and rich flavors make it ideal for romantic dinners, celebratory meals, or entertaining guests. The dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and a fresh side salad, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. In many kitchens, it is a go-to choice when one wants to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Interesting Facts

The recipes name has inspired countless social media posts featuring romantic dinner setups and proposal stories.
Despite its gourmet appearance, the dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it accessible for busy cooks.
Experimentation is common; some cooks add crab meat or substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
The original Marry Me Chicken recipe is often credited as the inspiration, but the shrimp variation has quickly become a favorite for seafood lovers.
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika creates a flavor profile reminiscent of Mediterranean coastal cuisine, yet tailored for American home kitchens.

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FAQ about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Store any leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp. However, the pasta may absorb some sauce, so you may need to add a little more cream or broth when reheating.

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly defrost them in cold water for 15-20 minutes.

If you don't have sun-dried tomato spread, you can use sun-dried tomato pesto or simply chop sun-dried tomatoes and blend them with some olive oil to create a similar consistency. It will still provide the necessary flavor, although it may slightly alter the texture of the sauce.

It is not necessary, but many people prefer to remove the shrimp tails before cooking for convenience, as it can be more challenging to remove them once the shrimp is cooked and coated in sauce. If you leave the tails on, be sure to mention this when serving, as some guests might find them tricky to remove during eating.

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Ensure the rest of the ingredients, like the chicken broth and sun-dried tomato spread, are also gluten-free. However, keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on the type of gluten-free pasta used.

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water, or more parmesan cheese, which will both help thicken the sauce.

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine would work well. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the pasta shape and size.

To add more heat to the dish, you can include red pepper flakes in the sauce or use a spicier variety of sun-dried tomatoes. You could also add a chopped fresh chili to the sauce while cooking.

While it’s not ideal to freeze the pasta after it’s been cooked, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately. When ready to use, defrost the shrimp and sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta. The texture may change slightly after freezing, especially for the pasta.

Comments

Deborah Lewis

10/12/2022 01:29:23 PM

Great recipe idea, but I would remove the shrimp tails. I'd rather enjoy this dish with a fork instead of using my fingers.

Raymond Jones

06/30/2023 06:03:40 AM

I decided to enhance the dish by incorporating a blend of Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago cheeses. Additionally, I opted to use a greater amount of shrimp than instructed in the recipe, and removed the tails before cooking. I would definitely remake this dish in the future!

Edward Collins

08/29/2023 07:48:19 AM

Delicious! I halved the ingredients since the recipe was originally for 8 servings. Unable to find sun-dried tomato paste locally, I used tomato paste from a tube as a substitute without making any other alterations to the recipe. The dish turned out so good that my partner and I devoured the entire meal meant for four during dinner. I have discovered a couple of recipes online for making sun-dried tomato paste, so next time I will make sure to plan ahead and have it on hand.

Eric Thomas

05/10/2023 08:58:53 PM

I followed the recipe instructions and prepared the ingredients earlier in the day to make dinner easier. I left the shrimp tails on, which was a mistake. It was difficult to remove the hot tails after cooking, and battling with hot, saucy food is not enjoyable. If I were to make this dish again, I would let it sit for 15 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to stick better to the pasta, which didn't happen during the last step. It looked much more appealing when it had cooled down. I would also remove the shrimp tails before cooking next time. Despite this, the dish was delicious, and I have leftovers for another meal. I will remove the tails before reheating. This review reflects my personal experience and may be helpful to others.

Stephanie Campbell

09/13/2023 07:07:21 PM

Two out of four reviews mentioned actually making and tasting the dish. I made a variation by using a different type of pasta and removed the tails, but followed the recipe as written. The result was good overall.

Angela Lopez

03/19/2023 02:42:23 AM

I loved this recipe! I added some crab meat and used tomato paste instead of sun-dried tomato paste, and it turned out fantastic.

Nathan Williams

10/31/2024 05:19:04 PM

I removed the tails from the shrimp.

Emma Allen

04/12/2025 07:58:23 AM

In step 2 of the recipe, I added oil to the pan and cooked the shrimp shells for a minute or two until they browned. Then, I poured in some chicken stock and let it simmer with the lid on for 5-6 minutes. After that, I strained out the shells, setting the flavorful liquid aside to use later in the recipe. I decided to reduce the amount of cream to 1/4 cup and substituted the rest with chicken broth, incorporating the shrimp stock along with the other liquids in step 5. The result was fantastic and we absolutely enjoyed it!

Mark Robinson

10/08/2024 11:30:15 PM

This dish was a huge disappointment and definitely not worth the effort! The sauce lacked any flavor for the ingredients used. Even after adding capers and hot pepper flakes, it still fell short. I'm puzzled by all the positive reviews this recipe received.

Edward Jones

04/03/2025 02:12:55 PM

I enhanced the recipe by including three anchovy filets at the beginning and increasing the amount of sundried tomatoes to half a cup. The result was simply incredible!!! Our guests were tempted to lick their plates clean, but refrained from doing so in a sophisticated manner.

Richard Robinson

04/01/2025 06:29:14 AM

Delightfully tasty and full of flavor! I stuck to the recipe with just a couple of small adjustments due to missing one specific ingredient. Having my homemade sun-dried tomatoes with their infused oil already prepared made this dish even more scrumptious. Did I mention how delicious it was?

George Thomas

01/13/2023 05:30:21 AM

The pasta and sauce were delicious. Unfortunately, the shrimp I used didn't meet my expectations, so I plan to experiment with a different source for the shrimp next time.

Samantha Hall

06/09/2024 04:30:44 AM

I had a great time preparing this recipe, it turned out delicious! It was very simple to make. Just peel the tails and leave the ends as shown in the picture.

Melissa Hill

01/28/2023 03:07:57 AM

I adore pasta! It holds a special place in my heart as a cherished connection to my Italian heritage on my mom's side. My love for pasta runs deep, as I am proudly part Italian, just like my mom, Luciano.

Emily Hernandez

03/10/2023 12:30:21 PM

Delicious and incredibly simple to prepare.

Amy Sanchez

11/22/2022 02:14:29 AM

I will certainly be making this recipe again, but I will make sure to let the sauce thicken more next time. I couldn't locate sun-dried tomato spread, so I improvised by combining smashed feta with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Pamela Ramirez

01/10/2023 04:24:47 PM

This dish was absolutely amazing! My husband even compared it to a meal from a fancy restaurant. He loved it so much that he jokingly proposed to me after trying it! 😄

Jessica Nguyen

03/25/2023 02:42:21 PM

Great experience! The sauce has a hint of penne alla vodka, which I really enjoy. While I prefer that dish slightly more, this one is a strong contender. The flavors and textures are excellent, with a smooth and creamy consistency. I echo a previous reviewer's sentiment about removing shrimp tails while eating, which can be a bit bothersome. I couldn't find pre-tailed shrimp in the store, but I'm sure they're available somewhere. Overall, delicious and definitely worth having again!

Joyce Diaz

09/05/2023 04:37:58 PM

Unfortunately, there is no option for a more detailed rating. I can't give it a perfect score, but it definitely surpasses a 4. I experimented with gluten-free pasta and half & half in a recent batch, but the results were disappointing. I also took the time to remove the tails and devein the shrimp, as I couldn't see how leaving the tails on would enhance this particular recipe.

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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

History and Origin of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Regional Variations and Features

Differences from Similar Dishes

Typical Serving Occasions

Interesting Facts

FAQ about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe