The moment I took my first bite of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, I knew I’d discovered something extraordinary. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, juicy shrimp nestled in perfectly cooked rigatoni, all enveloped in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that dances between tangy and rich. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, one that can transform an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion in just 30 minutes.
Perfect for stirring up love on date night or wowing the family, this creamy dish promises flavors that will stick in your memory. Packed with culinary depth yet deceptively simple to prepare, you’ll find it quickly becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So, let’s dive into the robust assembly of ingredients and prepare to indulge in an easy, satisfying plate that might just make your loved ones believe you’ve been whisked away to a cozy Italian trattoria.
Why is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Savory Touch: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce results in a flavor explosion that’s both tangy and comforting.
Versatile Options: Easily customize by swapping shrimp with chicken or opting for a dairy-free cream alternative.
Family Favorite: This dish is sure to impress your loved ones, making it perfect for date night or family gatherings.
Healthful Boost: Consider adding spinach for a nutritious twist that enhances both flavor and color.
For more delightful seafood options, don’t miss our section on quick meals.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Rigatoni – This sturdy pasta shape holds the creamy sauce exceptionally well; feel free to swap it for fusili or penne if you prefer.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Opt for medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite; ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; divide into two portions for seasoning shrimp and the sauce.
- Garlic Powder and Sweet Paprika – These spices elevate the shrimp’s taste, adding a delightful kick.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil and Unsalted Butter – The perfect duo for sautéing garlic and searing shrimp; you can use all olive oil if preferred.
- Garlic (4 cloves) – Minced for the freshest flavor; don’t underestimate this ingredient’s impact on the overall sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (3.5 ounces) – Adds tangy richness; ensure they’re drained if packed in oil, or hydrate them if dry.
- Italian Seasoning – Enhances the herbal complexity of the sauce; dried thyme or oregano can work as substitutes.
- Flour (1 tablespoon) – Thicken the sauce beautifully; swap with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth (¾ cup) – Used for deglazing and depth of flavor; vegetable or fish broth can be used instead.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates that luscious, creamy sauce; full-fat is best for richness. Avoid half-and-half for this dish.
- Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon) – A crucial player for deeper flavor; no substitutes are suggested.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – A bright touch that balances the dish’s richness perfectly.
- Basil Leaves (¼ cup) – Freshness in every bite; parsley can be substituted if basil isn’t on hand.
- Grated Parmesan (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and depth; fresh is ideal, but Pecorino or Asiago is a great alternative.
- Chili Flakes – Optional for those who enjoy a bit of heat; adjust according to your taste preferences.
With this lineup of ingredients, you’re all set to create the irresistible Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Prep the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Then, season them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring every piece is coated in flavor.
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
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Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sear for about 1 minute on each side until opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of remaining salt and black pepper; let it cook for another minute.
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Make the Sauce: Stir in the flour, allowing it to combine, and then slowly pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
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Add Creaminess: Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the tomato paste. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Finish the Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything: Finally, toss the cooked rigatoni and seared shrimp in the sauce, ensuring everything is coated beautifully. Serve hot and garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Get ready to personalize your dish and make it uniquely yours with these fun alternatives!
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Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a delightful variation that still delivers on flavor and heartiness.
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Dairy-Free Creaminess: Use almond milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy yet lighter version that everyone can enjoy.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a touch of lime juice along with the lemon for an extra citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious upgrade and a splash of color.
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Herb Infusion: Swap basil for fresh dill or cilantro to give your sauce a completely different aromatic vibe that pairs beautifully with seafood.
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Extra Kick: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha; perfect for spice lovers who crave more than just a hint of heat.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added depth to your creamy sauce.
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Unique Pasta Choice: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fettuccine or orecchiette to shake things up and create a whole new dining experience!
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Creating a delicious meal is all about balance, and these pairings will beautifully complete your culinary masterpiece.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and herbs, it’s the ideal crunchy companion to soak up that creamy sauce.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, flavorful, and slightly charred, this dish adds a lovely green element and a satisfying crunch to your plate.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and zesty treat cleanses the palate wonderfully after the creamy shrimp pasta.
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Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of this crisp wine pairs nicely with the creamy and tangy elements of the dish, enhancing your dining experience.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables adds a smoky flavor and vibrant colors to your table, complementing the pasta beautifully.
Pair any of these delightful options with your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for an unforgettable dining experience that’s sure to impress!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure to cook the rigatoni just until al dente. Overcooking will lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold the creamy sauce well.
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Searing Shrimp: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing shrimp. This allows for even cooking and ensures they become nice and golden without steaming.
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Creamy Sauce Trick: When adding heavy cream, ensure it’s at room temperature to prevent curdling and achieve a luxuriously creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Flavor Boost: If you enjoy tangy flavors, consider adding a splash of white wine during deglazing for an extra layer of depth.
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Sauce Consistency: Save a splash of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness if necessary. This adds starch to help the sauce cling to the pasta better.
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Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce in advance without adding the shrimp. Just reheat and toss with pasta and shrimp right before serving for a quick meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Shrimp Pasta bowls are a meal prep dream come true! You can cook the pasta and even sauté the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To keep the creamy sauce fresh, prepare it without the heavy cream and combine the other sauce ingredients beforehand. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the sauce on the stove, stir in the cream and shrimp, and toss with your pasta. This approach not only saves you time during busy weeknights but ensures each bite remains just as delicious and satisfying as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the pasta before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately; combine with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp when you’re ready to serve.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! I recommend using medium to large shrimp for this dish. Make sure they are peeled and deveined, as this saves time and ensures a better texture in the final dish. While fresh shrimp is always fantastic, frozen shrimp can be a great substitute if fresh isn’t available, just be sure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
How long can I store leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s essential to cool the pasta to room temperature before sealing to help maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the creaminess of the sauce.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently, making sure to stir in a little water or broth to maintain that creamy texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find the sauce is too thick, you can either add a bit of reserved pasta water or broth to loosen it. Start with a small amount, stir well, and then adjust as necessary. This method keeps the flavors balanced and the sauce perfectly creamy.
Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for someone with a shellfish allergy?
Of course! For individuals with a shellfish allergy, I suggest substituting the shrimp with a plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or tofu, or even grilled chicken if they’re not avoiding poultry. This maintains the integrity of the dish while ensuring everyone can enjoy it safely.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve and combine it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp. This makes dinner time a breeze on busy nights without sacrificing flavor!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Quick Creamy Romance on a Plate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Then, season them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring every piece is coated in flavor.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sear for about 1 minute on each side until opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of remaining salt and black pepper; let it cook for another minute.
- Stir in the flour, allowing it to combine, and then slowly pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the tomato paste. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Finally, toss the cooked rigatoni and seared shrimp in the sauce, ensuring everything is coated beautifully. Serve hot and garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes.