Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a decadent, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, tangy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is perfectly paired with gluten-free penne, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both indulgent and easy to make. This pasta is sure to become a favorite at any dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy texture and the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and a hint of basil. The shrimp adds a touch of sweetness and the perfect amount of protein, while the gluten-free penne ensures everyone can enjoy it. With the rich sauce, the combination of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, this pasta is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:
1 lb extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ tbsp smoked paprika
¾ tbsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp black pepper
¾ tsp salt
1 ½ tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)

For the Sauce:
2 ½ tbsp Cento tomato paste
½ cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes, diced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
⅓ tsp sweet smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¾ tsp dried basil
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
2 cups fresh spinach, diced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp minced onion
2 tbsp minced garlic
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:
12 oz gluten-free penne pasta

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Shrimp:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the gluten-free penne according to the package instructions for al dente.

2. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they are pink, opaque, and C-shaped (internal temperature should be 165°F). Set the cooked shrimp aside.

For the Sauce:

1. 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. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the gluten-free flour and stir well. Then, pour in the vegetable broth, heavy cream, and spinach. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens and the spinach begins to wilt (about 5 minutes).

3. Add the parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Combine:

1. Gently mix the cooked pasta into the sauce. Then, add the shrimp and gently stir to combine.

2. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: You can add additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for more texture and flavor.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.

• Swap shrimp for chicken: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, boneless chicken breast or thighs can be substituted in the recipe.

• Dairy-free: To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use regular penne or any pasta of your choice if you don’t need the dish to be gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The shrimp and sauce can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to combine everything and add the shrimp just before serving to prevent overcooking.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

The shrimp is cooked when it turns pink, becomes opaque, and curls into a “C” shape. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I use fresh sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh sun-dried tomatoes, but be sure to dice them finely and adjust the cooking time as fresh tomatoes will release more moisture.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While the pasta can be frozen, the cream-based sauce may change in texture once frozen and reheated. It’s best to store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or any other hard cheese you prefer.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. The creamy, cheesy sauce, paired with succulent shrimp and fresh spinach, is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this pasta is guaranteed to make everyone fall in love with it!

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