As the aroma of sautéed garlic fills my kitchen, I can’t help but reminisce about my quest for that perfect dish that warms the soul. Enter Marry Me Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce—my recent triumph that never fails to impress. This recipe not only whips up in a flash, making it a perfect weeknight dinner, but it also satisfies those cravings for a comforting, indulgent meal without the fuss of takeout. Imagine perfectly cooked gluten-free penne coated in a rich, creamy sauce that embraces plump, seasoned shrimp with a hint of sun-dried sweetness. It’s no wonder this dish has become a fast favorite! Curious about how you can recreate this delightful experience at home? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this pasta recipe unforgettable?
Simplicity at its Core: This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Creaminess: The dreamy sun-dried tomato sauce envelops each bite, delightfully balancing flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Versatile Options: You can customize it easily—switch the shrimp for chicken or lobster, or add a dash of spicy peppers for an exciting twist!
Gluten-Free Goodness: This dish caters to dietary needs without sacrificing taste, making it a go-to for varied diets.
Crowd-Pleasing Charm: Serve it at dinner gatherings or make it for a date night; its irresistible charm will surely impress your guests. Add a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!
For additional delicious ideas, check out Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta or Lobster Pasta Garlic.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Gluten-Free Penne – Serves as a delightful base that’s perfect for carrying the creamy sauce.
For the Shrimp
• Extra Large Shrimp – Provides a tender, juicy protein that perfectly absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Smoked Paprika – Introduces depth and a subtle smokiness that elevates the shrimp.
• Italian Seasoning – A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat, rounding out the meal’s flavor.
• Salt – A crucial component that amplifies the flavors of the dish.
For the Sauce
• Sun-Dried Tomato Oil – Infuses the shrimp and sauce with a rich tomato essence.
• Cento Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and intensifies its delicious flavor.
• Cento Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Contributes delightful sweetness and a chewy texture.
• Gluten-Free 1:1 Flour – Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce; regular flour works as a substitute if needed.
• Butter – Enriches the sauce, making it beautifully creamy.
• Minced Onion & Garlic – Essential aromatics that create a flavorful base.
• Vegetable Broth – The liquid foundation of the sauce; chicken broth can enhance the flavor even more.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers a luxuriously creamy consistency, making every bite heavenly.
• Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, creamy finish.
• Fresh Basil – A refreshing garnish that adds bright flavor right before serving.
• Spinach – An optional nutritious addition that brings color and earthiness to the dish.
Whether you’re making this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, these ingredients will help you create something truly memorable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook 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 instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later. Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the sauce and shrimp.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the extra large shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate briefly for about 5 minutes, enhancing their flavor, while you prepare your cooking equipment. This essential step will ensure that your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes per side. Watch for the shrimp to turn a lovely pink and curl into a C-shape, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the butter. Add the minced onion and garlic, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This step builds a robust flavor base for your sauce, setting the stage for the creamy sun-dried tomato goodness that will envelop the shrimp and pasta.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and gluten-free flour, mixing well to combine. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld before gradually pouring in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Continuously stir until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Season
Once the sauce has thickened, fold in the fresh spinach. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, until wilted and vibrant green. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed. This step ensures your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is both creamy and bursting with fresh flavors.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Reduce heat to low and add the cooked gluten-free penne and shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency, warming through for about 2 minutes.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Lastly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, creating a rich texture. Serve your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. This final touch elevates the dish and makes it even more inviting for your family or guests.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your dining experience with these delicious pairings that complement the rich flavors of this creamy shrimp dish.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted and buttery, garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick, ideal for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy texture of the pasta. The tangy dressing lifts the whole meal!
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the meal with their caramelized flavors and offer a hearty, earthy contrast. Think bell peppers and zucchini for bright colors.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay adds a delightful acidity that complements the richness of the dish, making each bite a little more refreshing.
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Herbed Couscous: This light and fluffy side enhances the meal with a flavor boost from fresh herbs, bringing a touch of vibrancy that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite right before the creamy pasta dish. These skewers are fun and finger-friendly!
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a tangy lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after a rich meal, leaving a refreshing finish that rounds out your dining experience perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can season and refrigerate the shrimp for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just cook the gluten-free penne and toss it with the refrigerated shrimp and warmed sauce. This method maintains the dish’s delicious quality while allowing you to create a wonderful dinner with minimal effort. So, prep ahead for an effortlessly impressive weeknight feast!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by swapping ingredients and adding delightful twists!
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Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a heartier version of this pasta dish. The flavor will still shine through!
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Creamy Vegan: Use coconut milk in place of heavy cream and substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms for a vegan-friendly dish that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that will awaken your taste buds!
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Seafood Medley: Mix in scallops or lobster instead of shrimp for an elegant seafood medley; just adjust the cook times accordingly.
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Herb Essentials: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a vibrant flavor boost that will brighten the dish and add complexity.
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Cheesy Delight: For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top before serving; it will melt beautifully into the pasta.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
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Greens Galore: Add more greens like kale or arugula, which not only boosts nutrients but also adds a peppery twist to the dish.
For more exciting ideas, why not explore Herby Artichoke Pasta or try a light yet flavorful Bruschetta Pasta Salad? Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
- Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, it should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safe consumption.
- Fridge: Refrigerate any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta first before storing to maintain its texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to portion it out for easy reheating later.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on medium-low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Perfect Shrimp Shape: Ensure shrimp are C-shaped when cooked; they should not curl too tightly, as that means they might be overcooked.
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a vibrant flavor explosion in your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Undercook Pasta: Cook the gluten-free penne slightly less than al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce, preventing mushiness.
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Creamy Consistency: Adjust the sauce thickness by adding reserved pasta water gradually, allowing you to achieve the perfect creamy coating.
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Flavor Depth: Enhance the sauce by simmering longer with the garlic and onion before adding other ingredients—this builds a robust flavor foundation.
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Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, making this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta even more irresistible!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for extra large, firm, and healthy ones with a fresh ocean scent. If they have dark spots all over or an off-putting smell, it’s best to avoid those. Fresh shrimp should appear dewy and translucent, indicating that they are of high quality.
What is the best way to store leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently over medium-low heat to avoid overheating.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for later?
Of course! To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
How can I prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked?
Great question! To ensure perfect shrimp, watch for their shape as they cook. Shrimp should be C-shaped when done—if they curl too tightly into an O-shape, they’ve been overcooked. Cooking shrimp for about 2 minutes per side in a hot skillet will usually yield perfectly tender shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Yes, definitely! This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is made with gluten-free penne pasta and thickened with gluten-free flour, making it a delicious option for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure all your other ingredients are also labeled gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Can I customize the protein in this pasta dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; you can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even lobster for a gourmet twist. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you choose a different protein—just make sure everything is cooked through and seasoned to your liking!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Dreamy Dinner to Impress Anyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gluten-free penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss the extra large shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Marinate briefly for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl into a C-shape. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter. Add minced onion and garlic, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and gluten-free flour, mixing well. Gradually pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Season: Fold in fresh spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Reduce heat to low and add the cooked gluten-free penne and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss together, ensuring everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
