Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is an exquisite dish that balances rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers unforgettable taste that might just inspire a proposal! The combination of seasoned shrimp, gluten-free penne, and a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and elegant.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• For Garnish
• How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Season the Shrimp
• Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 4: Make the Sauce Base
• Step 5: Build the Sauce
• Step 6: Finish the Sauce
• Step 7: Combine
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Enhance with Wine
• How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• Can I make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta dairy-free?
• What can I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• How long does it take to make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and parmesan brings an irresistible flavor profile to your plate.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights or family meals, this recipe can also adapt well with different proteins like chicken or scallops.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious meal without compromising on taste.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sauce and fresh basil garnish make this dish visually stunning for any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to gather all your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the shrimp and sauce evenly while allowing room for mixing.
• Mixing bowl: Helps to season the shrimp thoroughly before cooking them.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have to achieve perfectly cooked penne pasta.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
• ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1½ tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (from jar)

For the Sauce

• 2½ tablespoons tomato paste (Cento recommended)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced (Cento recommended)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ⅓ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour
• 2 cups diced spinach
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 oz gluten-free penne

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and C-shaped. Do not overcook. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour and mix well. Slowly add vegetable broth, heavy cream, and spinach. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir to combine.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Serving Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish that will impress your guests or make your dinner date extra special.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the pasta.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add mozzarella or parmesan cheese on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Enhance with Wine

• White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp and creamy sauce beautifully.
• Sparkling Wine: For a festive touch, serve prosecco or champagne to elevate the dining experience.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, follow these tips for cooking perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance flavor significantly.
• Cook Shrimp Properly: Ensure shrimp are C-shaped when cooked; this indicates they are perfectly done.
• Thicken Sauce Gradually: Add vegetable broth slowly while stirring to achieve the right consistency without clumps.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best fresh off the stove, so plate it right away for optimal flavor.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh basil not only looks appealing but also adds a burst of flavor to each bite.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet flavorful, asparagus roasted with garlic complements the richness of the pasta.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a bright taste that balances the creamy sauce.
3. Lemon Herb Rice: Light and zesty rice provides a nice contrast to the heavy pasta dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor, providing texture alongside the smooth pasta.
5. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy option that adds color and nutrients to your dinner plate.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an elegant appetizer before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp should be cooked until they turn pink and form a C-shape. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so watch the cooking time closely.
• Ignoring Seasoning: The key to rich flavors lies in seasoning. Ensure you properly season the shrimp and sauce with salt and spices for balanced taste.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic, onions, and herbs makes a significant difference. Dried ingredients can’t replicate the same depth of flavor.
• Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Follow package instructions and cook until al dente for perfect texture.
• Rushing the Sauce: Allow your sauce to simmer and thicken. Rushing this step can result in a watery sauce instead of a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Not recommended for freezing due to cream-based sauce.
• If necessary, store without shrimp or sauce to maintain quality.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in one-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat. Stir continuously until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Alternatively, swap shrimp for chicken or other seafood.

Can I make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.

What can I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a light salad. A crisp white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

The total time is about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner option.

Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days but is best eaten fresh due to its sauce’s creamy nature.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not just a delightful meal; it’s an experience that can impress anyone at your dinner table. Its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce combined with perfectly cooked shrimp makes it versatile enough to adapt with different proteins or veggies. Don’t hesitate to personalize it according to your taste!