Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all tossed in a luscious tomato cream sauce. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone swooning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce – A perfect balance of cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan.
• Tender, Flavorful Shrimp – Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
• Gluten-Free Option – Made with gluten-free penne but works with any pasta.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• Extra large shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined.
• Smoked paprika – ½ tablespoon.
• Italian seasoning – ¾ tablespoon.
• Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon.
• Salt – ¾ teaspoon.
• Sun-dried tomato oil – 1½ tablespoons (from the sun-dried tomato jar).

For the Sauce:

• Cento tomato paste – 2½ tablespoons.
• Cento sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup, diced.
• Italian seasoning – 1 tablespoon.
• Sweet smoked paprika – ⅓ teaspoon.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon.
• Dried basil – ¾ teaspoon.
• Gluten-free 1:1 flour – 2 tablespoons.
• Spinach – 2 cups, diced.
• Butter – 2 tablespoons.
• Minced onion – 2 tablespoons.
• Minced garlic – 2 tablespoons.
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups.
• Heavy cream – 1 cup.
• Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated.
• Fresh basil – Chopped, for garnish.

For the Pasta:

• Gluten-free penne – 12 oz (or regular penne if preferred).

Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the gluten-free penne according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and C-shaped (avoid overcooking).
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil.
3. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in gluten-free flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
6. Add spinach and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
7. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
2. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan – For the creamiest, most flavorful sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Look for C-shaped shrimp for perfect doneness.
• Adjust the Heat – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some spice.
• Make It Dairy-Free – Use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan.

How to Serve

• With Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
• With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.
• As a Main Course – Hearty enough to stand alone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Stovetop – Reheat over low heat with a splash of cream or broth.
• Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Freezing

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?
Yes! Sauté chicken pieces in place of shrimp.

Can I use regular pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta works well with this sauce.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, dreamy dish filled with tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all in a luscious tomato cream sauce. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in!

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