When the sun sets and I hear the gentle sound of water boiling for pasta, it feels like the perfect moment to create something special. Enter the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta—a dish as enchanting as its name suggests. A delightful 30-minute wonder, this creamy creation intertwines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked rigatoni in a savory sun-dried tomato garlic sauce.
Each spoonful invites you to savor layers of rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for a cozy date night or an effortless family gathering. As I stir the vibrant sauce, the kitchen fills with aromas that are undeniably comforting, evoking memories of shared moments and joyful laughter. If you’re tired of quick fixes and craving something that feels homemade and elegant, let me take you through this easy yet impressive recipe that promises to elevate your dinner experience.
Why is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This pasta dish comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Richly Flavorful: The creamy sun-dried tomato garlic sauce pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Impressive Presentation: Just like its romantic name suggests, this dish is sure to wow your guests, making it ideal for date night or special occasions.
Versatile Base: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, allowing for customization that’s still quick and hassle-free.
Comfort Food Classic: With its luscious texture and vibrant flavors, this pasta brings a taste of gourmet dining into your home.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving family or friends, this dish is bound to be a hit—nobody can resist a plate of creamy pasta!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Rigatoni – This serves as the delightful base; feel free to use any pasta you love like penne or fusilli.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – The heart of the dish; medium-large, peeled, and deveined shrimp bring you the best texture and flavor.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing shrimp; avocado oil or butter can work just as well.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a creamy richness; substitute with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic (minced) – Freshly minced garlic offers a robust flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch but fresh is best.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The star of the sauce; ensure they’re drained well for the best results.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses the dish with herbaceous notes; dried oregano or thyme can also do the trick.
• Flour – Helps thicken the sauce; cornstarch is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; vegetable or fish broth works well, or try some dry white wine.
• Heavy Cream – Provides the luscious creaminess; avoid light cream for that luxurious texture.
• Double Concentrated Tomato Paste – Intensifies flavors beautifully; regular tomato paste will still work fine.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish with its acidity; lime juice is a fitting substitute.
• Chili Flakes – Adds a touch of heat; feel free to omit for a milder flavor or use fresh chili for a twist.
For the Garnish
• Basil Leaves (chopped) – Fresh basil enhances the aroma; parsley can also be a lovely alternative.
• Grated Parmesan – Brings in a delicious creaminess; Pecorino or Asiago can make a delightful substitute.
For Seasoning
• Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your preference.
• Black Pepper – Perfect for seasoning; opt for white pepper if you prefer a subtle touch.
• Sweet Paprika – Adds a nice color and hint of sweetness; smoked paprika can bring in a different flavor dimension.
With all these Marry Me Shrimp Pasta ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Set them aside so they soak in the flavors while you prep the other ingredients.
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Mince and Chop: Finely mince the garlic, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice the basil leaves. Don’t forget to grate the Parmesan for that cheesy finish!
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
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Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, cooking for 1–2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
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Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring until combined. Slowly add the low sodium chicken broth, simmering for 2 minutes while scraping the skillet to release those delicious bits stuck to the bottom.
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Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream and add the double concentrated tomato paste. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened and creamy.
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Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and chopped basil, then mix in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
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Combine and Serve: Toss your cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce, mixing until everything is well-coated. For a touch of heat, sprinkle with chili flakes before enjoying.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce up to 24 hours ahead by cooking them completely and refrigerating them in an airtight container. Just sauté the shrimp, mix with the sauce, and let it chill. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed shrimp and sauce over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to restore creaminess. Cook the pasta fresh for optimal texture at serving time, ensuring your dish remains just as delicious as when first made. Prepping ahead means less stress and more time to savor this delightful meal!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
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Perfectly Sautéed Shrimp: Make sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
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Creamy Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
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Flavorful Substitutions: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be excellent alternatives to keep the sauce vibrant and delicious.
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Timing Is Key: Serve the dish immediately after tossing it with the sauce. Allowing it to sit can make the pasta soggy and diminish the creamy texture.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs. Fresh parsley can replace basil, offering a fresh twist to this delightful dish.
What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
When you’re ready to set the table for a special occasion, think about how to complement the creamy, savory flavors of your delightful pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread perfectly complements the creaminess of the shrimp pasta, providing a satisfying contrast. It’s a classic pairing for a reason!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing create a refreshing balance to the rich pasta, elevating your meal to a new level.
Pairing a salad with your pasta is a wonderful way to add fresh textures and flavors. The Caesar adds creaminess to the mix, while the crispness of each bite provides delightful contrast.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and kissed by the oven brings a touch of earthiness to your plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp, accentuating the dish’s flavors while offering a refreshing sip.
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Lemon Sorbet: End on a sweet note with a scoop of lemon sorbet, cleansing your palate and leaving a bright finish after the rich flavors of the pasta.
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Pesto Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with pesto are a fun and colorful appetizer that complements the flavors of the main dish.
These skewers are not only visually appealing but also add a burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the decadent Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
- Herb-Infused Oil: A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil over the finished pasta enhances its flavor while bringing an aromatic touch that tantalizes your senses.
With these pairings, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for sharing and enjoying any night of the week!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain flavor and texture, ensure it’s cooled before sealing.
Freezer: This pasta dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze in single portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess, ensuring the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta stays luscious.
Serving Tip: Always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating, as flavors may mellow during storage.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this creamy delight—let your taste buds take the lead!
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Vegetable Boost: Add baby spinach or arugula during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra pop of color and nutrients. The greens will wilt just perfectly, marrying beautifully with the rich sauce.
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Chicken Swap: For a twist, substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast, cooking until golden and cooked through. This variation offers a hearty alternative that still tantalizes the taste buds.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta such as chickpea or lentil-based varieties, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this creamy pasta dish without hesitation.
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Smoky Flavor: Replace sweet paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust depth of flavor in your sauce. This subtle change will dazzle and surprise your palate with its warmth.
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Zesty Twist: Add a tablespoon of capers for a briny flavor that elevates the entire dish. Each bite becomes a burst of flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced fresh chili or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you want to turn up the heat. The added spice creates a delightful contrast against the creaminess.
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Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free variation, swap out heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk. This will give the pasta a tropical twist while keeping it rich and creamy.
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Herb Mix-Up: Instead of basil, try using fresh dill or cilantro for a completely new flavor profile that brings a vibrant freshness to every spoonful!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, medium-large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal. However, feel free to use any shrimp size you prefer, just ensure they’re fresh for the best taste.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s important to let the pasta cool down before sealing it to preserve its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Very! You can freeze this delightful dish for up to 2 months. I recommend portioning it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to label them with the date for quick reference!
How do I reheat frozen Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. When ready, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore that creamy consistency. Stir occasionally and taste to re-adjust seasoning!
What can I substitute if I have allergies or dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking for dietary alternatives, you can make this dish gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of flour and choosing gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free options, replace heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, and use olive oil in place of butter.
What if the sun-dried tomatoes are too oily?
Great question! Ensure to drain the sun-dried tomatoes well before adding them to the sauce. If you find the sauce too oily, adding a bit of reserved pasta water will help balance it out and maintain that desired creamy consistency.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Creamy Bliss for Date Night Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside to soak in the flavors.
- Finely mince the garlic, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice the basil leaves. Grate the Parmesan for the finish!
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring until combined. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, simmering for 2 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in lemon juice and chopped basil, then mix in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce, mixing until well-coated. Optionally sprinkle with chili flakes before serving.