Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish that elevates your weeknight dinner with a rich tomato-based sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe combines smoky spices, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy parmesan sauce, delivering a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The shrimp are seasoned with smoked paprika and Italian herbs, then sautéed in flavorful sun-dried tomato oil, which infuses every bite with a subtle tang. The sauce is a luscious blend of tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and cream, thickened with gluten-free flour to achieve a velvety texture that clings to every strand of gluten-free penne.

Not only is this dish a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something impressive without a lot of fuss. The combination of fresh and dried herbs adds depth and complexity, while the parmesan cheese brings a sharp, savory finish. Topped with fresh chopped basil, this pasta is vibrant, flavorful, and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a date night, this creamy shrimp pasta is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy – The velvety sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese is indulgently smooth.
2. Bold Flavors – Smoky paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning create a complex flavor profile.
3. Gluten-Free Friendly – Uses gluten-free flour and pasta without sacrificing taste or texture.
4. Nutritious Additions – Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients, making the dish more balanced.
5. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for an effortless yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• Extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Sun-dried tomato oil

For the Sauce

• Tomato paste
• Diced sun-dried tomatoes
• Italian seasoning
• Sweet smoked paprika
• Salt
• Dried basil
• Gluten-free 1:1 flour
• Diced spinach
• Butter
• Minced onion
• Minced garlic
• Vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped basil (for garnish)
• Gluten-free penne pasta

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit shrimp and add mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.
• Regular Pasta: Use regular penne or your favorite pasta if gluten is not a concern.
• Lighter Cream: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Extra Cheese: Add mozzarella or fontina for a gooier, cheesier pasta.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook gluten-free penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a bowl, season the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.

Step 3

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook for 2 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 6

Sprinkle gluten-free flour over the mixture and stir well to combine and cook for another minute to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 7

Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and heavy cream until smooth and thickened.

Step 8

Add diced spinach and cook until wilted.

Step 9

Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.

Step 10

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss with the sauce.

Step 11

Add cooked pasta to the skillet and gently mix until pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.

Step 12

Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature shrimp for even cooking.
• Toast the tomato paste briefly for a deeper flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Whisk the broth and cream slowly into the flour mixture to avoid lumps.
• Fresh basil added at the end brightens the dish and enhances aroma.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy shrimp pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh basil. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce and shrimp separately (without pasta) for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely before cooking for best texture.

2. What can I substitute for sun-dried tomato oil?

Use olive oil, but the sun-dried tomato oil adds unique flavor.

3. Is this recipe dairy-free?

No, but you can substitute dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Fresh tomatoes won’t give the same concentrated flavor, but you can add chopped fresh tomatoes for a lighter sauce.

5. Can I make this vegan?

Replace shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

6. How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild and smoky; add chili flakes for heat if desired.

7. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, make the sauce up to two days ahead and reheat before adding shrimp and pasta.

8. What type of pasta works best?

Penne is ideal, but any gluten-free or regular pasta works well.

9. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—try bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra texture and flavor.

10. How can I thicken the sauce if needed?

Add a little more gluten-free flour mixed with water and cook until thickened.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a deliciously satisfying dish that blends smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors into a harmonious pasta meal. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich parmesan cream sauce makes this recipe a standout. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this pasta is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Print