Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that will leave a lasting impression. With tender shrimp, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and gluten-free penne, this dish is perfect for date nights or family dinners. Its rich taste and elegant presentation make it an unforgettable meal that might even lead to 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
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Plating Suggestions
• Accompaniments
• Wine Pairing
• Special Occasion Touches
• 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 makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta special?
• Can I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
• How do I ensure my shrimp are perfectly cooked?
• Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a deliciously robust sauce that enhances the shrimp.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out shrimp for chicken or other seafood if you prefer. This pasta works well with various proteins.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne ensures everyone can enjoy this decadent meal without worries.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh basil, this dish looks as good as it tastes—ideal for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking shrimp and sauce without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for seasoning shrimp evenly before cooking.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the penne cooks perfectly al dente.

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

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain 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 evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and C-shaped. Do not overcook. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

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

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour until well combined. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring continuously. Add heavy cream and diced spinach. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Combine

Add drained pasta to the skillet with sauce; gently toss to coat. Return cooked shrimp to pan and stir to combine everything well.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, these serving suggestions will help elevate the dish.

Plating Suggestions

• Use a large, shallow bowl to serve the pasta for an elegant look.
• Garnish with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of parmesan for added flavor and presentation.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: This wine’s buttery notes enhance the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Its crisp acidity helps balance the dish’s richness.

Special Occasion Touches

• Candles: Dim the lights and set candles on the table for a romantic atmosphere.
• Table Setting: Use cloth napkins and elegant dinnerware to create an upscale dining experience.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

To make your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips that ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes make a significant difference in taste.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook until shrimp are C-shaped; overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go, adding more herbs or spices to suit your palate.
• Cream Consistency: Use full-fat cream for a richer sauce that clings beautifully to pasta.
• Pasta Timing: Add the drained pasta right after cooking to help it absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creamy dressing, balancing out the dish.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings freshness and complements seafood well.
3. Caprese Skewers: These skewers combine mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing appetizer.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor and is easy to prepare alongside the pasta.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers a vibrant starter that pairs nicely.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf infused with herbs provides a comforting side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect.

• Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Aim for a C-shape when cooked and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Ignoring seasoning – Not seasoning the shrimp or sauce can lead to bland pasta. Make sure to season each component well, especially the shrimp.
• Using low-quality ingredients – The flavor of this dish relies heavily on quality ingredients. Use fresh shrimp and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best results.
• Not checking pasta doneness – Cooking pasta past al dente will result in mushy noodles. Always check a minute before the package time.
• Skipping the sauce thickening step – A thin sauce won’t cling to the pasta properly. Ensure you let it thicken before adding the pasta and shrimp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce; it can separate upon thawing.
• If you must freeze, consider storing just the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe container and cover loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or cream and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta that might help you prepare this delightful dish.

What makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta special?

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta features a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that combines perfectly with seasoned shrimp, making it ideal for special occasions.

Can I customize Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?

Yes! You can add other proteins like chicken or scallops, or even mix in your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I ensure my shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Cook shrimp until they curl into a C-shape and turn pink. Avoid cooking them too long to prevent toughness.

Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days. However, avoid freezing due to its creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough to impress at any dinner table. With its rich flavors and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and make it your own!