Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that makes it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this creamy pasta will impress everyone at the table. With tender shrimp and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, it’s both comforting and elegant. You’ll find that its unique blend of ingredients might just earn you 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
• Pair with a Salad
• Add Crusty Bread
• Include a Wine Selection
• Garnish Creatively
• 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
• What is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?
• How can I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• What can I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and creamy sauce creates an exceptional taste experience.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or other seafood to customize this dish to your liking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne ensures that everyone can enjoy this meal without worry.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and rich textures make this dish visually stunning for any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your essential tools and equipment before you start. Proper tools can enhance your efficiency and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking shrimp evenly and making the sauce all in one pan.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for seasoning shrimp thoroughly before cooking, ensuring each piece is flavorful.

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 the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp and sauce.

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 seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink, opaque, and C-shaped. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and onion along with diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Sauté these ingredients for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour into the sautéed mixture until well combined. Gradually add vegetable broth followed by heavy cream. Then add diced spinach. Let it cook for about 5 minutes while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth throughout.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add your drained penne pasta into the skillet with sauce. Gently toss everything together to ensure that pasta is well coated in creamy sauce. Finally, return cooked shrimp to pan and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 8: Serve

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

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Serving Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for romantic evenings or family gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
• Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast that balances the creamy sauce.

Add Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia topped with herbs adds a lovely texture and flavor to your meal.

Include a Wine Selection

• Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the shrimp and cream.
• Pinot Grigio: This white wine’s lightness pairs beautifully with seafood, making it an excellent choice.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil on top adds freshness and color.
• Parmesan Shavings: Elegant shavings of parmesan cheese can make an attractive finishing touch.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To ensure your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from spices; they elevate shrimp flavors. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Proper shrimp cooking: Cook shrimp until they’re C-shaped. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery.
• Cream consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding cream. Adjust based on your desired texture.
• Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese for richer flavors.
• Pasta timing: Cook gluten-free penne just until al dente to avoid mushiness when mixing with sauce.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Complementing your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta with the right sides can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic add a lovely crunch and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Herbed Quinoa: Light and nutritious quinoa tossed with herbs provides a wholesome side option.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers bright color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned simply complement the richness of the pasta beautifully.
6. Italian Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting appetizer before main dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp should be C-shaped when done. Cook only until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Proper seasoning is key! Ensure you season the shrimp and sauce well with salt and spices for maximum flavor.
• Using the Wrong Pasta: This recipe calls for gluten-free penne. Using regular pasta may alter the dish’s texture and flavor.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip it; fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly.
• Cooking at High Heat: Cooking on high heat can burn ingredients. Use medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.
• If you must freeze, separate shrimp from sauce and pasta before freezing.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream if necessary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy dish featuring shrimp, gluten-free penne, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs that’s perfect for special occasions.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken, scallops, crab, or lobster. Just sear them separately and add at the end.

How can I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients. You can adjust spices based on your preference as well!

What can I serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Pair this dish with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce and tender shrimp will surely impress anyone at your dinner table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it uniquely yours!

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