Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re longing for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This delightful recipe pairs tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp with a luscious, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that clings to every piece of al dente penne pasta. The flavors are rich but balanced, with hints of smoked paprika and Italian herbs that make each bite irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta promises a restaurant-worthy experience right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its simple, thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a starring role: from the smoky depth of the paprika to the fresh burst of basil, these components come together seamlessly to create a vibrant, creamy sauce that’s both comforting and elegant.

• Extra large shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience and tender bites.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Italian seasoning: Brings classic Mediterranean herbs for a perfect savory base.
• Black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• Sun-dried tomato oil: Infuses a rich tomato essence and boosts the sauce’s color.
• Cento tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes: Deliver an intense, tangy tomato base.
• Dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Gluten-free flour: Helps thicken the sauce while keeping it smooth and velvety.
• Fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and gentle earthiness.
• Butter, onion, and garlic: Build a rich, fragrant foundation for the sauce.
• Vegetable broth: Lightens the sauce, balancing the creaminess with depth.
• Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, silky texture we all crave in a dreamy pasta sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that makes this dish utterly irresistible.
• Fresh basil: For garnish—a burst of freshness and color on top.
• Gluten-free penne: Cooks to a perfect al dente, ready to soak up all the creamy goodness.

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prep the Shrimp

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to package instructions for that ideal al dente bite. While the pasta is cooking, toss your shrimp in a mixture of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, making sure every piece is evenly coated with those lovely spices that build flavor from the ground up.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl into a perfect C-shape; this is the sign of perfectly cooked shrimp. Overcooking leads to a tight O shape, so keep a close eye here. Once done, set the shrimp aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat for a rich start. Add minced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and soft. Stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil, letting everything mingle and release those amazing aromas for about two minutes.

Step 4: Thicken and Enrich the Sauce

Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the aromatics, stirring thoroughly to prevent lumps. Gradually add the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously as the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts—this usually takes about five minutes. Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Carefully fold the cooked penne into your luscious sauce, making sure every piece is luxuriously coated. Then gently stir in the shrimp, allowing the flavors to marry perfectly. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and get ready to savor a dish that truly lives up to its name.

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves lend a vibrant pop of color and a fragrant brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Feel free to sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top for that extra cheesy goodness and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper for a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty gluten-free rolls make perfect companions for soaking up every last bit of the sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a delightful textural contrast to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in warm shallow bowls with a few whole basil leaves artfully placed on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the final plating adds an extra layer of aromatic flavor and a glossy finish that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so. When storing, be sure not to add fresh basil until serving to keep its color and aroma vibrant.

Freezing

Because this recipe features a rich cream sauce, freezing is not recommended as it can cause the sauce to separate and lose its luscious texture. For best results, enjoy it fresh or cool and refrigerate.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to keep the sauce creamy and smooth. If the sauce thickens too much, a splash of broth or cream helps bring it back to its perfect consistency without compromising flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is traditional here, feel free to substitute with fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free noodles that hold sauces well. The key is choosing pasta shapes that capture the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. This will change the flavor profile slightly but keep the sauce rich and satisfying.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?

You can substitute with olive oil infused with a small amount of sun-dried tomato paste or simply use olive oil and add extra diced sun-dried tomatoes to maintain that vibrant tomato flavor.

How can I tell when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Look for shrimp curling into a loose C shape and turning opaque pink. Avoid overcooking — if they curl tightly into an O shape, they’ve gone too far and may be rubbery.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat and add the freshly cooked shrimp and pasta for optimal freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience—a beautiful symphony of flavors and textures that will quickly become a go-to favorite. Whether it’s date night, a family dinner, or just because you deserve something special, this creamy, comforting dish has a way of making dinner feel unforgettable. Don’t hesitate, give it a try and get ready to fall in love bite after bite.