Last week, I found myself rummaging through the pantry, and then I stumbled upon a jar of sun-dried tomatoes that sparked a wave of creativity. What started as a simple quest to clean out my shelves turned into a culinary revelation when I decided to whip up Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. The moment I combined those tangy tomatoes with creamy sauce and succulent shrimp, I knew I had discovered something truly magical.
If you’re searching for a dish that strikes the perfect balance between decadence and simplicity, look no further. This pasta recipe is not just a weeknight meal; it’s a ticket to impress dinner guests or reignite date night romance—all in under 30 minutes! Imagine pasta coated in a luscious sauce, perfectly paired with tender shrimp and vibrant spinach, creating an experience that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the senses.
Ready to dive into this irresistible recipe? Let’s transform ordinary ingredients into something that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even a proposal!
Why will you love Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Irresistible Taste: This dish combines the savory flavor of shrimp with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, creating a taste sensation that will have everyone raving.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it feasible for even the most hectic schedules.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your pasta with chicken or tofu for different tastes, or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a romantic dinner, gathering with friends, or an impressive family meal, this pasta will be the star of the show!
Elevated Simplicity: Experience gourmet dining at home without fuss—simple enough for everyday cooking, yet elegant enough to wow your guests.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Creamy Sauce
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Use oil-packed for the richest flavor in your creamy sauce.
• Garlic – Finely chopped, it infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness.
• Tomato Paste – Deepens the flavor profile, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Chicken Broth – Low-sodium preferred; it serves as the base for a flavorful sauce.
• Heavy Cream – This is what gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess and richness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adjust to taste for a subtle heat kick.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
For the Pasta and Spinach
• Rigatoni or Penne – These pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Baby Spinach – Adds a pop of color and nutrition, wilting perfectly into the sauce.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Large, peeled and deveined shrimp ensure tender bites throughout the dish.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing every flavor in the dish.
Finishing Touches
• Parmesan Cheese – Use finely grated for a nutty finish that ties everything together.
• Fresh Basil – Torn just before serving, it adds a burst of freshness and aroma.
This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta will have everyone falling in love with dinner again!
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Cook Shrimp: Add the large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the pan. Season them with kosher salt and black pepper, then cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In the same pan, mix in the tomato paste, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer while enjoying the delightful aroma.
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Add Pasta: Toss in the rigatoni or penne that you’ve cooked according to package instructions, along with the baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta absorbs that creamy goodness.
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Mix in Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and give it all a gentle stir. Finish with Italian seasoning and finely grated Parmesan cheese, letting everything mingle beautifully at the end. Garnish with fresh torn basil just before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for an added touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creaminess.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, store the pasta and sauce in separate containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth as needed to smooth out the sauce again.
Meal Prep: Consider making the creamy sauce in advance; you can keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days and then quickly combine it with pasta and shrimp when you’re ready to serve.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating. The shrimp can also be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated, but it’s best to add them back into the sauce just before serving to keep them tender and juicy. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce gently, add freshly cooked rigatoni, spinach, and then finish with the shrimp for a delightful, restaurant-quality experience in no time!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own twist on this dish and make it your own with these delightful options!
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Chicken Substitute: Swap shrimp for boneless chicken breast, seasoned and sautéed until golden and cooked through. A comforting alternative that’s just as satisfying.
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Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian-friendly option, replace shrimp with cubed firm tofu. Sauté until crispy for a great texture that marries beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Whole Wheat Pasta: Choose whole wheat rigatoni or penne for added fiber and a nutty flavor. This small change elevates its healthiness without sacrificing taste.
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Kale Upgrade: Substitute baby spinach with chopped kale or arugula. Both add a peppery kick and nutritious boost, deepening the dish’s flavor profile.
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Garlic Extra: Add a hint of roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter, mellow flavor. It infuses the sauce with a unique earthiness that complements the cream beautifully.
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Wine Infusion: For a richer sauce, substitute half of the chicken broth with a splash of white wine. This adds a sophisticated depth that takes the dish to a whole new level.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the sauté. They add a burst of flavor with a lively spice that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
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Herb Boost: Elevate your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Toss them in at the end for a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens the entire meal.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Each bite of this creamy delight deserves the perfect accompaniments to create a truly memorable meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted bread pairs beautifully, perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. It’s a classic choice that guests will love.
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Light Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness and offers a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus adds freshness and complements the dish’s flavors with its earthy essence.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish with its crisp acidity, making every bite a delightful adventure.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky and decadent chocolate mousse rounds out the meal with a sweet finish that feels like a celebration.
Imagine a warm evening, sharing plates of pasta and laughing over a bottle of wine, creating memories that are just as irresistible as your dinner!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Perfect Shrimp Timing: Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and fresh ingredients for the best flavor in your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
• Pasta Cooking: Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking once added to the sauce.
• Adjust the Heat: Customize crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference—more for heat, less for a milder dish.
• Add Freshness Last: Stir in fresh basil right before serving to keep its vibrant flavor intact and elevate the dish’s aroma.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. They’re more flavorful and add richness to your creamy sauce. Look for vibrant red ones without any dark spots, as these indicate better quality.
What is the best way to store leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Very simple! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the pan to help restore the sauce’s creaminess, making it more enjoyable!
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Definitely! You can freeze the pasta and creamy sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the containers in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth to keep it creamy.
What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
Oh no! If your shrimp are overcooked, there’s a way to salvage your dish. You can create a quick seafood sauce by simmering some broth with a bit of cream to make it more luscious. Toss in a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor—it won’t perfect the shrimp, but it will enhance the overall dish!
Is this recipe suitable for someone with shellfish allergies?
Not at all! If you have a shellfish allergy, I recommend substituting the shrimp with chicken or tofu. Both work beautifully in this creamy sauce and will give you a delicious result without any health risks. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly for the protein you choose.
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
The more the merrier! While rigatoni or penne are ideal for holding the rich sauce, feel free to use your preferred pasta shape, like farfalle or fettuccine. Just be sure to cook it to al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce!
Irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for an Unforgettable Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the pan. Season them with kosher salt and black pepper, then cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, mix in the tomato paste, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer while enjoying the delightful aroma.
- Toss in the rigatoni or penne and baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta absorbs that creamy goodness.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and give it all a gentle stir. Finish with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese, letting everything mingle beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil just before serving.