Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with gluten-free penne in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Perfect for date nights or family dinners, it stands out with its luxurious flavors and elegant presentation. With this recipe, you’re sure to impress your loved ones and perhaps even earn a proposal!

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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
• 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 Everything
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Elegant Presentation
• Pair with Wine
• Add Fresh Garnishes
• Offer Extra Sauce
• Accompanying Proteins
• Bread Side
• 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
• Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
• How spicy is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
• What should I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• How can I make this dish lighter?
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs creates a rich flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne makes this dish accessible to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
• Versatile: While this recipe features shrimp, you can easily substitute other proteins like chicken or scallops for variety.
• Elegant Presentation: The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it an impressive dish for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gathering the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the shrimp and sauce all in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
• Mixing bowl: Helps evenly coat the shrimp with seasonings before cooking, ensuring optimal flavor.

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
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz gluten-free penne

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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 it well 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 they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

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

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour to absorb any excess liquid. Gradually add vegetable broth while stirring continuously. Then incorporate heavy cream and diced spinach into the mixture. Allow it to cook for around 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Mix in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This adds richness to your sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta into the skillet with sauce and toss gently to coat thoroughly. Return cooked shrimp to the pan; stir everything together so every bite is flavorful.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta with fresh chopped basil before serving immediately. Enjoy this creamy delight!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Serving Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, presentation matters! Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Elegant Presentation

• Plate with Style: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls for an elegant touch. Top with additional parmesan and fresh basil for a beautiful finish.

Pair with Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and shrimp perfectly, enhancing the flavors.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Herb Sprinkles: Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds color and flavor. Scatter it over the top just before serving.

Offer Extra Sauce

• Creamy Tomato Sauce: Keep extra sauce on the side for guests who love a bit more creaminess to their dish.

Accompanying Proteins

• Grilled Chicken or Steak: For meat lovers, serve grilled chicken or sliced steak on top of the pasta to add heartiness.

Bread Side

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To make your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Use high-quality Italian seasoning to deepen the flavor profile of your dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture and taste.
• Cook Shrimp Just Right: Ensure shrimp are C-shaped; overcooked shrimp will be tough and chewy.
• Thicken with Care: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to thicken without losing its creaminess.
• Taste As You Go: Adjust salt and seasoning while cooking; every ingredient impacts the final flavor.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy the dish immediately after preparation for the best taste and texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Completing your meal with delicious side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft inside, this classic pairs wonderfully with pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: A crunchy Caesar salad adds freshness and contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and health benefits alongside your main dish.
4. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad combines ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—perfect for balancing rich flavors.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overwhelming the palate.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers variety and complements Italian cuisine.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a light side dish.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs provides a satisfying base to accompany the shrimp pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp should be cooked until they turn pink and C-shaped. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season shrimp before cooking can lead to bland results. Be sure to coat them well with spices, including smoked paprika and Italian seasoning, for a burst of flavor.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: A dry pasta dish can be unappealing. Make sure to create a generous amount of sauce by following the recipe closely, adding cream and broth for richness.
• Choosing the Wrong Pasta Type: While gluten-free penne is recommended, using a different type of pasta may change the texture. Stick to gluten-free options for best results if needed.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: Allowing the sauce ingredients to sauté properly enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; cook onions and garlic until fragrant for a more robust sauce.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Failing to store leftovers correctly can affect quality. Follow storage instructions to enjoy your dish later without compromising taste.

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 due to the cream-based sauce which may separate when thawed.
• If necessary, freeze without shrimp and add fresh shrimp when reheating.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?

Yes, you can use regular penne if you do not have gluten sensitivities. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

How spicy is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

This recipe is mild but flavorful. You may add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.

Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?

Absolutely! This recipe also works well with chicken, steak, or even seafood like scallops or crab.

What should I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

How can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the amount of cheese used.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Just remember that it’s best enjoyed fresh and might not store well due to the creaminess; however, it can still be made ahead without shrimp.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is an elegant yet comforting dish that’s perfect for impressing loved ones or enjoying a family dinner. Its creamy tomato sauce beautifully complements tender shrimp, making every bite irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding veggies or trying different proteins based on your preference!

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