If you’re looking for a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious, look no further than this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, complemented by perfectly cooked penne pasta. Its indulgent flavor profile has earned its name, promising to impress your loved ones and bring everyone to the table.
With a straightforward preparation process and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties alike. Whether you’re a busy parent, a culinary novice, or a seasoned chef, this recipe ensures that you can whip up an elegant meal in no time. Let’s dive into why this dish has earned its place as a dinner table favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: The beauty of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. You don’t need gourmet items to create a dish that tastes like it was made in a high-end restaurant.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is manageable enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for special occasions.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sun-dried tomato sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
- Versatile and Satisfying: With its satisfying combination of shrimp, pasta, and sauce, this dish can cater to various palates. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients and Substitutions
The key to the success of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is the harmonious blend of ingredients that create its rich flavors.
- Shrimp: 1 pound of extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined, provides that succulent seafood taste. You may also substitute it with chicken or other seafood depending on your preference.
- Seasoning: Smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt give the shrimp a robust flavor. Feel free to adjust these to your taste or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Using oil from the sun-dried tomato jar enhances flavor.
- Pasta: 12 oz of gluten-free penne ensures the dish is suitable for gluten-sensitive diets, but any pasta shape can be used if gluten is not a concern.
- For the Sauce: A mix of tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, onion, and heavy cream forms a rich and creamy sauce. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Cheese: Parmesan cheese thickens and enriches the sauce. Grana Padano can be an acceptable substitute.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that will impress everyone around the table:
- Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Cook the gluten-free penne according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 10-12 minutes.
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss together the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until they are thoroughly coated.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1.5 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated shrimp and cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring not to overcook them.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic, diced onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, additional Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook for about two minutes until fragrant.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of gluten-free flour to the aromatic mixture. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of vegetable broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes, then add 2 cups of diced spinach and let it wilt.
- Combine Everything: Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted, then gently fold in the cooked pasta and shrimp. Be careful to mix gently to keep the pasta intact.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish your dish with fresh, chopped basil, and serve hot for an unforgettable meal!
Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure the shrimp are C-shaped during cooking; if they form an O-shape, they are overcooked.
- For a creamier texture, consider using a higher-fat content cream or a touch of cream cheese.
- Stir the sauce continuously while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even consistency.
- Gently mix in the pasta and shrimp on low heat to avoid breaking the pasta.
Variations
This recipe is versatile! Here are some variations you can try:
- Seafood Twist: Substitute shrimp with lobster, scallops, or crab for a luxurious variation.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream and butter substitutes to make it dairy-free.
- Sharper Flavors: Add capers or olives to the sauce for a burst of briny flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
To create a complete meal, consider serving your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta with a crisp, green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty French bread pairs perfectly to soak up the creamy sauce. For drinks, a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
This dish can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to freshen it up. Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when shrimp is cooked properly?
Cooked shrimp will turn pink and opaque, resembling a C-shape. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While you can prepare certain elements ahead, it’s best to combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness, especially the cream sauce.
What can I serve with this pasta?
Pair this pasta with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?
Yes, using gluten-free penne ensures the dish remains gluten-free while retaining delicious flavors.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra large shrimp peeled/deveined
- 1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
- 2 1/2 tbsp Cento tomato paste
- 1/2 cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes diced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/3 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp Gluten free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups diced spinach
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced onion
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil chopped for garnish
- 12 oz gluten free penne
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente while you cook the shrimp.
- Toss the shrimp with the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until they're evenly coated.
- Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, cook the shrimp for two minutes on both sides until they are pink, opaque, and C-shaped. If they're O-shaped, you've cooked them too long.
- Set the cooked shrimp aside to cool.
- Melt the butter in the same pan over medium-low heat. Then, add the garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook the mixture for about two minutes until fragrant.
- Add the flour to the aromatics and stir well. Then, add the broth, heavy cream, and spinach. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens and the spinach starts to wilt - about 5 minutes. Then, add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Carefully mix the pasta into the sauce. Then, add the shrimp and gently stir again. Garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy.
