The scent of sun-dried tomatoes sizzling in olive oil takes me back to warm evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where every meal felt like a special occasion. This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is my take on that delightful nostalgia, featuring succulent shrimp bathed in a creamy sauce that melds perfectly with gluten-free penne. Not only is this dish quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also brings a touch of gourmet elegance to your dinner table. With tender shrimp and the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe promises to impress—whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one. Are you ready to add a little love to your next meal?
Why is this shrimp pasta unforgettable?
Irresistible Comfort: This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta combines creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and gluten-free penne, offering a luxurious yet comforting experience.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner dates.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with this gourmet dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Versatility at Its Finest: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or scallops, or add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat.
Nostalgic Flavors: Inspired by cherished traditional recipes, this dish brings back memories while creating new ones. Pair it with a refreshing side salad or some Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to delight!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Gluten-free penne – The base of this dish; cook until al dente for the perfect bite.
For the Shrimp
• Extra large shrimp – Provides the main protein; ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
• Smoked paprika – Adds a warm, smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the dish’s taste; adjust according to preference.
• Black pepper – Introduces mild heat; seasoning can be tailored to your liking.
• Sun-dried tomato oil – Perfect for sautéing shrimp, infusing them with rich flavor.
For the Sauce
• Cento tomato paste – Thickens and enriches the sauce; any quality tomato paste will work.
• Cento sun-dried tomatoes – Adds both texture and depth of flavor; fresh tomatoes can be substituted (remember to reduce liquid).
• Dried basil – Imparts aromatic herbal notes; fresh basil is a lovely alternative.
• Gluten-free 1:1 flour – Used for thickening the sauce; regular flour can be a good swap if gluten isn’t a concern.
• Diced spinach – Boosts nutrition and color; kale is a suitable leaf substitute.
• Butter – Provides richness; olive oil is a lighter alternative if desired.
• Minced onion and garlic – Aromatics that create a fragrant base for the sauce.
• Vegetable broth – Enhances the sauce; chicken broth or water can be used in a pinch.
• Heavy cream – Forms the creamy sauce base; lower-fat options can be used, though results may vary.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; pecorino is a delicious substitution.
• Fresh basil (for garnish) – Optional, but gives the dish a bright finish.
Tip: This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal, but a culinary love letter to seafood lovers!
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 rolling boil. Once boiling, add the gluten-free penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss your peeled and deveined extra large shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and C-shaped, then set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the butter. Add the minced onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the diced sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the aromatic mixture, stirring to combine and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, then add the diced spinach. Increase the heat to medium and simmer for approximately 5 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Gently fold the cooked gluten-free penne into the creamy sauce in the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Add the sautéed shrimp back into the mixture, stirring delicately to combine everything. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt through the sauce, and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for that lovely finishing touch.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
A meal of creamy delight awaits you, beautifully complemented by these satisfying sides and treats.
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Garlic Bread:
Warming and buttery, the crusty garlic bread makes for an irresistible companion, perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. -
Arugula Salad:
With its peppery bite and refreshing crunch, this salad tossed in a light vinaigrette provides a vibrant contrast to creamy pasta. -
Roasted Asparagus:
Tender yet slightly crisp, roasted asparagus adds a pop of color and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience. -
Lemon Sorbet:
Light and refreshing, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and is the ideal sweet finish after the richness of the shrimp pasta. -
Chardonnay:
This buttery white wine pairs seamlessly with seafood, enhancing the tangy nuances of the sun-dried tomatoes and shrimp. -
Chili Flakes:
If you’re a heat lover, sprinkling a bit of chili flakes over your pasta adds delightful warmth that complements the flavors beautifully.
Cook up your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, and let these delightful pairings take your meal to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the entire sauce and cooked shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the sauce by following the recipe instructions but stop before adding the pasta and parmesan. Allow it to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The shrimp can be cooked and stored alongside the sauce to maximize flavor retention. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently over low heat, add the cooked gluten-free penne to warm through, and finish with the parmesan for that creamy, restaurant-quality finale. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta recipe and tailor it to your tastes!
- Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken breast for a hearty twist; just cook until golden brown and juicy.
- Scallops Delight: Use large sea scallops instead of shrimp for a luxurious seafood upgrade; sauté until they’re caramelized.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for an exciting heat that elevates the dish!
- Vegetarian Option: Consider swapping shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite vegetables; it’s a delightful plant-based alternative.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of basil for a different aromatics profile.
- Texture Boost: Add some crunchy elements, like toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts, for added texture and depth in each bite.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve the sauce over spiralized zucchini or other vegetable noodles instead of pasta.
Whatever you choose, don’t hesitate to pair this stunning pasta with your favorite side, like some Ditalini Pasta Salad or a zesty Chipotle Lime Shrimp dish for a delicious meal!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for up to 2 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s airtight.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back creaminess. Avoid overheating shrimp to prevent toughness.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider prepping the sauce and shrimp separately, storing them in the fridge, and combining them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are C-shaped and opaque for ideal texture; overcooking makes them rubbery.
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Flavor Infusion: Marinate shrimp in spices for 30 minutes before cooking to deepen flavors; this enhances the overall taste of your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Pasta Water Rescue: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Add it to the sauce if you need to adjust thickness without losing flavor.
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Creamy Consistency: Stir in the heavy cream slowly to achieve a smooth, consistent sauce; too fast can lead to curdling.
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Keep it Fresh: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for garnish; it brings a burst of brightness to your dish and elevates the presentation.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for extra large shrimp (U10 size) that’s fresh, firm, and has a sweet smell of the sea. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, and always opt for peeled and deveined for ease of cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
For best results, refrigerate your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture, let it cool before sealing. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Ensure it is airtight to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has thickened more than you’d like, simply add a little reserved pasta water or vegetable broth, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This trick not only thins the sauce but also infuses flavor back into the dish.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
It’s wise to note that this recipe contains gluten-free options, so make sure to use gluten-free pasta if necessary. For shellfish allergies, consider substituting shrimp with chicken or plant-based proteins. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly!
What should I do if my shrimp turn out rubbery?
To avoid rubbery shrimp, remove them from heat as soon as they turn C-shaped and opaque, typically around 2 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re making ahead, be mindful while reheating to prevent overcooking.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!
Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add the gluten-free penne and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp by tossing peeled and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until pink.
- Make the sauce in the same skillet by reducing heat to medium-low, melting butter, and sautéing minced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce by sprinkling gluten-free flour over the mixture, then gradually whisk in vegetable broth and heavy cream. Add diced spinach and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet, fold in the shrimp, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
