Are you ready to impress your family or that special someone with a dish that’s nothing short of irresistible? Look no further! Today, I’m sharing my secret recipe for Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, a dish so divine that it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. This creamy, garlicky, cheesy masterpiece is not only a showstopper but also quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s perfect for quick family dinners or a romantic dinner recipe for two.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for 30-minute meals!
- A rich, creamy garlic pasta sauce that’s indulgent yet easy to make.
- Packed with succulent shrimp and flavorful ingredients for a good pasta dish everyone will crave.
- A versatile recipe that works as a fun date night meal or a cozy weeknight dinner idea.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences—make it lighter or go all out with extra cheese!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this shrimp over pasta masterpiece:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering shrimp and cheese recipe!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add Italian seasoning and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce, tossing until everything is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a delightful finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- For an extra creamy sauce, use a mix of heavy cream and half-and-half.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be pink and just opaque.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like!
- Pair this dish with a side of Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan for a well-rounded meal.
How to Serve
This easy pasta recipe is perfect as a standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a fun date night meal, set the table with candles and a bottle of white wine. Craving more seafood? Try pairing it with Garlic Mushroom Pasta for a seafood-and-earth duo!
Make Ahead and Storage
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then combine and reheat when ready. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days—reheat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
There you have it—your new go-to dinner recipe for two or a crowd-pleasing quick family dinner. This creamy garlic pasta is sure to become a favorite, and with these simple steps, you’ll be making it like a pro in no time. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share those delicious moments with the ones you love!

Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, add broth and cream, stir to combine, and simmer gently.
- Whisk in Parmesan until smooth, add Italian seasoning, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, toss to coat. If thick, add reserved pasta water. Serve hot, garnished with basil or parsley.