Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping dish that’s equal parts romantic and utterly delicious, let me introduce you to Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Creamy, savory, and bursting with the punchy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and succulent shrimp, this pasta truly lives up to its “marry me” promise. Every forkful offers a marriage of textures and flavors—juicy shrimp, silky sauce, and hearty, gluten-free penne. Whether you’re whipping it up for someone special or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta becomes a masterpiece. Every item has its place, from adding vibrant color to bringing deep, savory flavor. Here’s exactly what you’ll need—and why each one matters.
- Extra large shrimp (1 pound): Their hearty bite and natural sweetness shine, soaking up the flavors beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tbsp): Adds a subtle smokiness that instantly deepens the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 3/4 tbsp total): A fragrant blend that infuses both the shrimp and the sauce with classic herbaceous notes.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Brings just the right amount of warmth to balance the creamy richness.
- Salt (1 1/4 tsp total): Enhances every flavor, making everything pop.
- Sun-dried tomato oil (1 1/2 tbsp): This infused oil delivers incredible depth and a hint of tang.
- Cento tomato paste (2 1/2 tbsp): Gives the sauce a concentrated tomato punch.
- Cento sun-dried tomatoes, diced (1/2 cup): Add a chewy, umami-packed brightness.
- Sweet smoked paprika (1/3 tsp): Layered, distinctive smokiness that elevates the sauce.
- Dried basil (3/4 tsp): Brings a gentle herbal sweetness.
- Gluten free 1:1 flour (2 tbsp): Thickens your sauce to just the right creamy consistency.
- Diced spinach (2 cups): Adds freshness, a pop of green, and subtle texture.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Rounds out the sauce, giving luxurious richness.
- Minced onion (2 tbsp): For a savory foundation that helps the sauce sing.
- Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Delivers that irresistible aromatic kick.
- Vegetable broth (2 cups): Adds flavor and liquidity, melding all ingredients together.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce sumptuously creamy.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Brings salty, nutty intensity and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Fresh basil, chopped: Perfect for finishing with a burst of garden-fresh aroma.
- Gluten free penne (12 oz): Ideal texture to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten free penne and cook according to the package directions for a classic al dente bite—tender but with just the right amount of chew. When your pasta is done, drain it and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, add your peeled and deveined shrimp, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss them together with your hands or a spatula, making sure each shrimp is thoroughly coated. This seasoning step gives Marry Me Shrimp Pasta its character right from the start, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Sauté and Cook the Shrimp
Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the seasoned shrimp in an even layer and cook for about two minutes on each side—they should turn pink, opaque, and form that signature C-shape. Resist the temptation to overcook; if they curl into an O, they’ll be tough. Remove shrimp from the pan and set them aside while you make the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Using the same skillet (with all those savory bits left behind), melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add in the minced onion and garlic, then toss in your diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Let everything sizzle together for about two minutes, stirring frequently—your kitchen is going to smell divine!
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the gluten free 1:1 flour over the sautéed aromatics, stirring to form a fragrant roux. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, followed by heavy cream and diced spinach. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about five minutes. The sauce will thicken and the spinach will tenderize, weaving all the flavors together seamlessly.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish the Sauce
Once your sauce has thickened, generously sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted into a dreamily smooth consistency. If the sauce is a touch too thick, add some reserved pasta water for a silkier finish. This is where the “marry me” magic really happens!
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure each noodle is thoroughly coated in sauce. Then, add the cooked shrimp back in and stir again, being careful not to break them up. Your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is now ready for its final touches!
How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
To make this dish truly irresistible, scatter a flurry of freshly chopped basil on top. The aroma and color instantly brighten every plate, while a final snow of parmesan gives it a luxe finish. For a little heat, you might also add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for zing. These garnishes turn Marry Me Shrimp Pasta from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of your pasta with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette or serve some roasted asparagus alongside. A piece of crusty gluten free bread is also perfect for swiping up the last bit of that creamy sauce. Light and simple sides ensure Marry Me Shrimp Pasta remains the star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style experience at home, twirl your pasta into individual nests and top with shrimp. Serve in wide, shallow bowls to show off the vibrant colors. Sprinkle a little extra parmesan and add a basil leaf for that final “chef’s kiss.” Marry Me Shrimp Pasta also looks gorgeous family-style, heaped on a platter and placed in the center of your table for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best flavor and texture, keep the shrimp and pasta together, but remember that gluten free pasta can soften the longer it sits in the sauce.
Freezing
Freezing is possible, though the sauce’s creamy consistency might change slightly upon thawing. For best results, cool the pasta completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of cream or vegetable broth to the pasta, then gently warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. This keeps everything creamy and prevents the shrimp from drying out!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! While gluten free penne is a great choice, you can substitute any short or long pasta you love. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even rigatoni work beautifully—the sauce’s creamy texture clings to every shape.
How spicy is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
This recipe has a gentle warmth from smoked paprika but is not spicy. For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce when sautéing the aromatics.
Can I make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta dairy-free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, swap the butter and cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. The dish will still be creamy and crave-worthy.
What’s the best way to prevent overcooking shrimp?
Watch for the C-shape—the moment your shrimp turn pink and curl, they’re ready! Remove them from the pan promptly, as cooking even a minute too long can leave them rubbery rather than tender.
Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?
It certainly can be! Prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time, but cook the shrimp fresh before serving for the best texture. Store everything separately and combine just before eating for optimal results.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish with maximum impact and minimum fuss, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is truly a recipe to remember. Whether it’s for a special date night or just because you deserve a little decadence, I hope you enjoy making and sharing this creamy, flavor-packed pasta as much as I do. Don’t wait—give it a whirl and let it work its magic!
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Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delectable recipe for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce served over gluten-free penne. This dish is bursting with flavors and is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound extra large shrimp (peeled/deveined)
- 1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
For the Sauce:
- 2 1/2 tbsp Cento tomato paste
- 1/2 cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/3 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp Gluten free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups diced spinach
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced onion
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (chopped for garnish)
- 12 oz gluten-free penne
Instructions
- For the Shrimp
Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente while you cook the shrimp.
- Season
Toss the shrimp with the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until they’re evenly coated.
- Cook
Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for two minutes on both sides until they are pink, opaque, and C-shaped.
- Cool
Set the cooked shrimp aside to cool.
- For the Sauce
Melt the butter in the same pan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook the mixture for about two minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce
Add the flour to the aromatics and stir well. Add the broth, heavy cream, and spinach. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens and the spinach starts to wilt – about 5 minutes. Then, add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Mix
Carefully mix the pasta into the sauce. Then, add the shrimp and gently stir again. Garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to maintain their tenderness.
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- You can substitute regular pasta if you’re not following a gluten-free diet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 290mg
Keywords: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, Shrimp Pasta Recipe, Creamy Shrimp Pasta
