As I sauté garlic, the aroma wafts through my kitchen, whispering promises of a culinary love affair. This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is my ultimate quick meal solution, perfect for those evenings when you want to impress your loved one or simply indulge yourself with something special. Crafted in just 30 minutes, it features succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that clings beautifully to rigatoni, making every bite a delight. Beyond its romantic flair, this dish is also a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly transforming an everyday dinner into a sophisticated dining experience. Are you ready to whisk your taste buds away on this scrumptious journey? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is This Pasta Recipe So Special?
Quick and Easy: This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a breeze to make in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous date nights.
Creamy and Rich: The sun-dried tomato sauce envelops each piece of shrimp and pasta, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet comforting.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out shrimp for chicken or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without losing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for family, this dish is a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Fresh Flavors: The aromatic blend of garlic, basil, and zesty lemon juice strikes a perfect balance with the creamy sauce, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
Elevate your meal further with a side of roasted vegetables or a refreshing salad—like my Creamy Thai Coconut Shrimp for an exciting additional option!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Rigatoni – This pasta’s shape helps capture the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with fusilli or penne if you prefer.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Medium-large shrimp are ideal for this dish, providing a tender bite; any size works if that’s what you have on hand.
• Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter – Combined, they create a rich base for searing; you can use all olive oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Seasoning
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Garlic Powder & Sweet Paprika – These spices add depth and warmth to the shrimp; fresh garlic can be used instead of powder for a stronger flavor.
• Garlic (cloves) – Freshly minced garlic elevates the sauce’s aroma and taste.
• Italian Seasoning – A fragrant blend that complements the dish; oregano or thyme can serve as substitutes if needed.
For the Sauce
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – They infuse richness into the creamy sauce; make sure they’re well-drained to avoid excess oil.
• Flour – A thickening agent for the sauce; use cornstarch if you need a gluten-free option.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth or dry white wine are good alternatives.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious texture; avoid substitutions for the best creaminess.
• Double Concentrated Tomato Paste – Intensifies the sauce’s flavor; regular tomato paste works in a pinch.
• Lemon Juice – Brings brightness and balance to the creamy sauce.
For the Finishing Touches
• Chopped Basil Leaves – Fresh basil provides a burst of flavor; parsley is an excellent substitute if needed.
• Grated Parmesan – Adds a savory creaminess; Pecorino, Asiago, or Grana Padano are delightful alternatives.
• Chili Flakes – For a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an enchanting Marry Me Shrimp Pasta that will have everyone falling in love with your cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Prep Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining 1 pound of medium-large shrimp. In a bowl, season the shrimp with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well-coated, allowing the spices to infuse. Set the seasoned shrimp aside while you prepare the other ingredients, ensuring they’ll be bursting with flavor once cooked.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add 12 ounces of rigatoni pasta. Cook the pasta until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, according to package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta, saving about half a cup of the pasta water, and set the rigatoni aside, allowing it to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Sear Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the mixture is sizzling, add the seasoned shrimp. Sear them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside, ensuring they’re still juicy and tender.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic
Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Next, add in 1 cup of well-drained sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, allowing the mixture to cook for an additional 2 minutes, blending the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the skillet and stir for about a minute to eliminate raw flour taste. Gradually deglaze the skillet by pouring in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping the bottom to dissolve any flavorful bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes, thickening slightly, which will create a rich base for the sauce.
Step 6: Prepare Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of double concentrated tomato paste. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle boil over medium heat, allowing it to simmer for about 3 minutes. Watch for bubbling, indicating readiness, while the sauce thickens into a luxurious, creamy consistency that will envelop your pasta beautifully.
Step 7: Combine & Serve
Once the sauce is thick and creamy, add in the juice of 1 lemon and ½ cup of chopped fresh basil, stirring for added brightness and freshness. Then, toss in the cooked rigatoni and the sautéed shrimp, folding everything together gently. Finish with ½ cup of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes, mixing until every bite of the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is well coated and irresistibly flavorful.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this creamy, comforting dish.
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Garlic Bread: The crisp, buttery edges and soft interior are perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the richness of the pasta, lightening the overall meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: The nutty, slightly charred flavor of roasted asparagus complements the creamy shrimp dish, adding a touch of elegance to your plate.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the seafood flavors, while its crispness provides a perfect accompaniment to the creamy pasta.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a bright and refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, rounding off your romantic dinner with a touch of sweetness.
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Antipasto Platter: An array of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers a savory start, setting the stage for the flavors of the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
These pairings not only complement the dish but also create a well-rounded meal that impresses everyone at the table.
Storage Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will keep your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta fresh and flavorful.
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Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, portion it out and place it in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months, but be aware that the cream may separate when reheated.
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Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or milk to restore creaminess. This keeps the dish luscious and avoids a dry texture.
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and herbs create a vibrant flavor profile. Ditch the frozen shrimp for the best possible taste in your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Properly Drain Tomatoes: Ensure sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained. Excess oil can make your sauce greasy rather than creamy, affecting the overall dish.
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Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Searing shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side leaves them juicy. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture—nobody wants that!
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Adjust Spice Level: Customize the amount of chili flakes based on preference. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s tricky to take it out!
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Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, gently reheat them with a splash of pasta water or milk to maintain creaminess and prevent separation of the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the last-minute rush! You can season and refrigerate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the spices to infuse for maximum flavor. Additionally, you can cook the rigatoni and prepare the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce up to 3 days ahead; simply cool completely before refrigerating in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain that luscious creaminess. Toss everything together right before serving for an unforgettable meal with minimal effort!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish to suit your tastes!
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Spinach Boost: Add a handful of fresh baby spinach during the final mixing for a nutritious green twist.
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Chicken Substitute: Swap shrimp for bite-sized pieces of chicken for a hearty alternative that still delivers fantastic flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accommodating for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
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Creamy Vegan Delight: Replace heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a vibrant, plant-based version that keeps the richness intact.
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Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme instead of basil for a refreshing change that brightens the overall flavor.
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Ultra-Creamy: Amp up the creaminess by stirring in an extra splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich finish.
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Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or toss in a few fresh sliced jalapeños to elevate the heat level and satisfy spice lovers at the table.
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Citrus Twist: For an exciting flavor boost, include zest along with lemon juice or even try lime for a zesty surprise.
These ideas can truly transform your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta experience. If you’re in the mood for another creamy indulgence, don’t forget to check out my Tuscan Sausage Pasta for more culinary delights!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Medium-large shrimp are ideal as they provide a tender bite and hold up beautifully in the creamy sauce. However, any size shrimp works well too—just adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help preserve the flavors and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or milk to maintain that luscious creaminess.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
You can freeze this pasta dish, but it requires some care. Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers, allowing for a little space at the top. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on low, adding a splash of water or cream to help restore its original texture.
What if I have dietary restrictions regarding the ingredients?
Not a problem! If you need to accommodate gluten-free diets, substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce. For a dairy-free option, replace the heavy cream with a coconut or almond milk alternative. Additionally, feel free to swap shrimp with chicken or tofu to cater to different protein preferences.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t fret! Simply add a little reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth gradually, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. This will enhance the sauce while ensuring it clings to the pasta beautifully.
How can I prevent the sun-dried tomatoes from making my sauce oily?
To avoid an oily sauce, be sure to drain your sun-dried tomatoes well before adding them to the skillet. You can even rinse them briefly under cold water to remove excess oil. This simple step is key to achieving the creamy texture you desire without compromising the richness of your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Irresistibly Creamy in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Season with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour into the skillet and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, scraping the bottom. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and tomato paste. Bring to a gentle boil, simmering for 3 minutes until thick.
- Add lemon juice and basil to the sauce. Toss in rigatoni and shrimp, mixing well. Top with Parmesan and chili flakes.