Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a decadent, creamy shrimp dish that combines tender, seasoned shrimp with gluten-free penne in a velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It’s rich, comforting, and layered with flavor from Italian herbs, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. This pasta is quick enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for a date night or dinner party.

Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken,” this shrimp version takes everything people love about the original—creamy, savory, and satisfying—and adds a seafood twist. It’s the kind of meal that makes a big impression. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s called Marry Me Pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, layered flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan
• Quick and easy—ready in under 40 minutes
• Gluten-free friendly without compromising texture or taste
• Versatile—can be adapted with chicken, scallops, or even lobster
• Perfect for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels both comforting and elevated, this is the one.

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large non-stick or stainless-steel skillet
• Medium pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Fine grater for parmesan

Why Each Tool Matters

• Skillet: Essential for sautéing shrimp and building the sauce evenly
• Grater: Freshly grated parmesan melts better than pre-shredded varieties
• Mixing bowls: For seasoning shrimp thoroughly before cooking
• Measuring tools: Accuracy is key in a rich, balanced sauce

Preparation Tips

• Allow shrimp to come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness
• Salt your pasta water well—it enhances the flavor of the penne
• Stir the sauce continuously after adding cream to prevent separation
• Don’t walk away from the shrimp; overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery

Ingredients List

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
• ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1½ tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)

For the Sauce

• 2½ tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ⅓ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour
• 2 cups diced spinach
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces gluten-free penne

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side. Remove when pink and opaque with a C-shape. Set aside.

4. Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Thicken the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Add spinach and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts.

6. Finish the Sauce

Add grated parmesan and stir until smooth and creamy.

7. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked penne and shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

While the flavors in this pasta are bold and creamy, they pair beautifully with lighter sides and fresh touches. Here are some ways to present and enjoy it:

Plate It Elegantly

Serve in wide, shallow pasta bowls to showcase the shrimp and allow the sauce to settle evenly over the penne. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and an extra dusting of parmesan cheese adds a polished finish.

Pair with a Light Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad helps balance the richness of the sauce. Opt for greens with a little bite like arugula or radicchio and dress lightly with a vinaigrette or lemon juice to contrast the creamy elements of the dish.

Add a Citrus Element

A wedge of lemon on the side or a quick squeeze over the shrimp before serving brightens the entire plate and complements the seafood flavor.

Wine Pairing

This pasta goes well with white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay. Choose a wine with acidity to cut through the richness of the cream sauce.

Serve with Bread

If you’re not strictly gluten-free, pair it with toasted baguette slices or garlic bread. For a gluten-free option, serve with warm gluten-free rolls or a crisp flatbread for dipping into the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a rich, seafood-based pasta like this one comes with its challenges. Here are the most common errors people make and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—just 2 minutes per side. When they curl into a tight C-shape and turn opaque, they’re done. If they become O-shaped and rubbery, they’re overcooked. Always cook them last or remove them from heat quickly after sautéing.

Undercooking the Flour

After adding gluten-free flour to the sauce base, give it a minute to cook before adding the liquid. This helps eliminate any raw flour taste and contributes to a smooth, thickened sauce.

Not Stirring the Sauce

After adding the cream and broth, continuous stirring ensures the sauce emulsifies and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. A gentle simmer, not a hard boil, is key to maintaining a silky texture.

Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Use freshly grated parmesan for a smooth finish and richer flavor.

Skipping the Salt in Pasta Water

This is your only chance to season the pasta directly. Salt the boiling water before adding the penne for better overall flavor.

Side Dish Recommendations

Balance is key when pairing sides with a creamy pasta dish. Here are eight delicious options to complement Marry Me Shrimp Pasta:

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Crispy, roasted florets with a sprinkle of parmesan offer a crunchy, savory contrast to the pasta’s richness.

2. Lemon Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette is bright and refreshing, balancing the creamy sauce.

3. Gluten-Free Garlic Bread

Toasted slices of gluten-free bread spread with garlic butter add a comforting and familiar side.

4. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

Lightly sautéed green beans with slivered almonds offer crunch and a touch of natural sweetness.

5. Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze echo the tomato and basil in the pasta.

6. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Asparagus spears roasted until tender and topped with lemon zest complement the shrimp’s delicate flavor.

7. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

For a low-carb pairing, serve pesto-dressed zucchini noodles on the side or underneath the shrimp pasta.

8. Creamy Cauliflower Mash

If you’re craving something heartier, a side of creamy mashed cauliflower works well with the pasta’s texture and doesn’t overpower it.

Final Touches for Serving

When plating, consider these finishing elements:

• Freshly cracked black pepper for mild heat
• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for richness
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for spice
• Microgreens or extra chopped basil for a restaurant-style touch

These small details make the dish feel elevated and restaurant-worthy, perfect for impressing dinner guests or making a quiet evening at home feel special.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Even though this dish is straightforward to prepare, a few advanced techniques can help you elevate the flavor and texture.

Use Room Temperature Shrimp

Cold shrimp added directly to a hot pan can seize up and overcook quickly. Let the shrimp sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and tender results.

Build Layers of Flavor

Start by sautéing garlic, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes in butter before adding tomato paste and seasonings. This caramelizes the aromatics and intensifies the savory base of the sauce.

Add the Dairy Gradually

Pour in the heavy cream slowly and stir continuously. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from breaking. Maintain a gentle simmer, never a boil, when working with dairy.

Choose High-Quality Parmesan

Freshly grated parmesan cheese has a stronger flavor and smoother melt than packaged shredded varieties. This contributes to a richer and more cohesive sauce.

Don’t Skip the Fresh Basil

Garnishing with chopped fresh basil adds brightness and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich, creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately, it can be stored for later with some care. Due to the cream content, freezing is not recommended.

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Stir gently until the pasta and shrimp are heated through.

Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp and cause the sauce to separate. If microwaving is necessary, use short bursts at 50 percent power and stir frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most common questions home cooks have when making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.

Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Yes, this recipe is very flexible. You can substitute chicken breast, seared scallops, crab, or lobster. Cook them separately and add them to the sauce just before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free penne and a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, the recipe is completely gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

The traditional version uses heavy cream, butter, and parmesan. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free parmesan substitute. Be aware that the flavor and texture will change slightly.

What does “Marry Me” in the recipe name mean?

“Marry Me” refers to the idea that this dish is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal. It’s a playful name often given to creamy, irresistible recipes that people immediately fall in love with.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp a few hours in advance. Store them separately, then combine and reheat gently when ready to serve. For the best texture, cook the pasta fresh right before serving.

Why is my sauce too thick or too thin?

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. Be sure to stir often to maintain a smooth consistency.

What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil?

You can use dried basil, though fresh is preferred for garnish. Other options include flat-leaf parsley or fresh oregano.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. From the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce to the tender shrimp and hearty gluten-free pasta, every bite is packed with flavor and comfort. By following the tips and techniques outlined here, you can make this dish not only foolproof but unforgettable.

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself to a gourmet homemade dinner, this pasta delivers elegance and satisfaction in every forkful. With thoughtful preparation, the right ingredients, and a few finishing touches, it’s easy to see why this recipe has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere.