“Can you believe it?” a friend exclaimed, savoring every bite. That’s the magic of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—a dish that makes hearts flutter and taste buds dance. Picture this: succulent shrimp glistening in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked rigatoni. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal, turning any weeknight into a cozy culinary celebration or impressing that special someone on date night. With its effortless prep and irresistible flavors, this easy seafood dish is sure to become a go-to for gatherings and dinner parties alike. Are you ready to fall head over heels for this creamy pasta delight?
Why is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta irresistible?
Simplicity: With only 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this recipe makes dinner a breeze, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous date nights.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, combined with tender shrimp and hearty rigatoni, creates an unforgettable taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for two, this dish is guaranteed to impress and dazzle your guests.
Versatile: Feel free to mix it up! Substitute shrimp with chicken or add spinach for a healthy twist. Explore variations like those in my recipe for Shrimp Scampi Pasta if you’re craving something new.
Effortlessly Elegant: Serve this dish with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal at home that looks as good as it tastes!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Rigatoni – Provides a hearty base; can also swap for fusilli or penne for better sauce adherence.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the shrimp beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, creamy texture to your sauce.
- Shrimp – Medium-large shrimp give the best texture; feel free to use any size, ensuring they are peeled and deveined.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings that balance and enhance flavors; adjust to your taste.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth without the chopping!
- Sweet Paprika – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic Cloves – Fresh minced garlic brings aroma and a flavor boost.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The star of this sauce; make sure they are drained properly for maximum flavor.
- Italian Seasoning – Infuses the dish with classic aromatic herbs.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce, but feel free to swap with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing and adding moisture; vegetable or fish broth can also work.
- Heavy Cream – Creates that luxurious creamy texture; avoid using half-and-half as it won’t provide the right richness.
- Double Concentrated Tomato Paste – Adds depth of flavor and a lovely touch of sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and balances out the creaminess.
- Chopped Basil Leaves – Fresh herb topping that completes the dish with an aromatic finish.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds creaminess and umami flavor; consider Pecorino or Asiago as substitutes.
- Chili Flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!
Embrace the joy of creating this delightful dish, perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress and enjoy every velvety bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by peeling and deveining your medium-large shrimp, then season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mince 3-4 garlic cloves, chop sun-dried tomatoes, and finely slice a handful of fresh basil leaves. Grate about half a cup of Parmesan cheese to get everything ready for your creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10–12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, and set it aside, making sure to reserve a bit of pasta water just in case the sauce needs a little extra moisture.
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 has melted and starts bubbling, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Sear for about 1 minute on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque—then remove them from the skillet and keep them warm.
Step 4: Build Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add your minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour, stir well, and then deglaze the pan with 1 cup of low sodium chicken broth, letting it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Cream
Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 2 tablespoons of double concentrated tomato paste, stirring until combined. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 3 minutes—this helps meld all the delicious flavors together for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta sauce.
Step 6: Finish Sauce
Remove the skillet from heat and add in the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon, along with your chopped basil and the grated Parmesan. Mix everything well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious, creating a perfect coating for your pasta.
Step 7: Combine
Finally, add the cooked rigatoni and seared shrimp to the skillet with your creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss gently until every piece of pasta and shrimp is thoroughly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency before serving.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are cooked just right by watching for them to turn pink and opaque; overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Creamy Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gently stir in a little reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
• Drain Sun-Dried Tomatoes: To avoid a watery sauce, make sure to drain your sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly; excess moisture can dilute the flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic, basil, and quality tomatoes will elevate the dish; consider adjusting the seasoning to enhance flavors further.
• Add a Pop of Color: For a nutrient boost, toss in some baby spinach toward the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender without overcooking.
Storage Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s best to refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Consider separating the sauce and pasta to maintain better texture when reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan or microwave. Add a splash of water or milk to help restore the creamy consistency if the sauce has thickened.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses; it’s best to cool and store it right away.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Imagine transforming this creamy seafood delight into a full meal that enchants both the palate and the heart.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the rich sauce, allowing you to savor every drop. Serve it warm, and let the aroma fill your kitchen!
- Crisp Salad: A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad offers a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s creaminess while adding a vibrant color palette to your plate. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a delightful zing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet caramelized veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the pasta. Their tender texture enriches each bite, creating a satisfying medley.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay elevates this meal further, its light acidity cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the dish’s flavor, making each sip as delightful as the last.
- Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your palate with a zesty lemon sorbet for dessert. The refreshing citrus balances the richness of the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, leaving you with a light, sweet finish.
- Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain, flavored with fresh herbs, provides an excellent healthy side that absorbs any sauce while adding a delightful chewiness. It’s a nutritious addition that complements seafood well.
- Caprese Skewers: Bite-sized cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze make a perfect appetizer. Their vibrant colors and fresh flavors act as a stunning prelude to your pasta dinner.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this delightful dish! Each variation can offer a unique sensory experience that you’ll love.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or increase chili flakes to heighten the heat for those who crave a little more spice in their life. Feel free to turn up the flavor dial to make it your own!
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Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. You’ll still enjoy the sauce’s creaminess while appealing to different tastes.
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Pasta Alternatives: Try gluten-free pasta or whole wheat for a healthier option. Both options maintain great flavor while catering to dietary needs.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some baby spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more nutrition and color. The extra veggies will not only enhance the dish but also offer delightful textures.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano instead of basil for different aromatic profiles. Each herb brings its own unique flavor to elevate your dish.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a refreshing contrast to the creaminess. This small twist can transform the traditional taste into something beautifully vibrant!
If you’re looking for some scrumptious alternatives to spice up your dinner routines, consider checking out my recipe for Shrimp Chimichurri Zesty for a fresh and tangy experience or dive into the comforting layers of flavor in my Shrimp Scampi Pasta.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prep the shrimp and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder up to 24 hours in advance; just store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, chop the sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve your creamy pasta dish, simply cook the rigatoni, sear the shrimp, and build the sauce as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch in one go!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using medium to large shrimp for the best texture, but you can use any size as long as they are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp will impart the most flavor, but frozen shrimp can be a convenient alternative—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
How long can I store leftovers of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
You can store any leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Always refrigerate promptly to keep the flavors fresh and safe to eat.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest separating the sauce from the pasta to maintain the best texture. Store the pasta and sauce in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water—a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches your preferred consistency. This water not only helps thin the sauce but also adds extra flavor from the pasta.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful that this dish contains shellfish and dairy. You can easily swap the shrimp for chicken or vegetables if needed, and use lactose-free cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version. And for spice lovers, feel free to adjust the chili flakes based on your preference!
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked perfectly?
The best way to check if the shrimp is cooked is to look for a vibrant pink color and a firm, opaque texture—this usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes per side in the skillet. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them rubbery and dry. Keep an eye on their color as you cook!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Date Night Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and deveining your medium-large shrimp, then season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mince garlic, chop sun-dried tomatoes, and slice basil leaves. Grate Parmesan cheese.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions (10-12 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for about 1 minute on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- Lower heat and add minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour into the skillet, stir and deglaze with chicken broth, let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and add tomato paste, stir until combined. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat, add lemon juice, basil, and Parmesan. Mix well until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Add cooked rigatoni and seared shrimp to the skillet, toss gently until well coated. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
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