If you are looking for a dish that is both impressively delicious and incredibly comforting, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer. This pasta features tender shrimp swimming in a creamy, garlicky tomato sauce studded with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a perfect hint of spice. It is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate while simultaneously dazzling your taste buds with its layers of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself to a rich, homemade meal, this dish is bound to become an all-time favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From the chewy rigatoni to the luscious cream sauce, and the bright herbs to the smoky paprika, each component elevates the dish to something truly memorable.
- 11 oz rigatoni: The perfect pasta shape to trap that creamy, flavorful sauce in every bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity, subtle richness while cooking the shrimp.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Enhances the sauce’s silkiness and deepens the flavor.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks up tender and juicy.
- 1 tsp salt, divided: Vital for seasoning shrimp and balancing the sauce’s flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided: Adds warmth and depth to both shrimp and sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlicky undertone complementing fresh garlic.
- 1 tsp sweet paprika: Brings a smoky, slightly sweet complexity to the shrimp.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with that classic aromatic bite.
- 3.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and drained: Concentrated tomato flavor brightens and enhances sauce richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an earthy, herbal aroma to the dish.
- 1 tbsp flour: Thickens the sauce just enough for perfect coating without heaviness.
- ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth: Introduces savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The luscious base that makes this pasta truly indulgent.
- 1 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste: Intensifies tomato richness and balances creaminess.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: A bright touch of acidity to cut through the richness and brighten flavors.
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh, herbaceous notes that add vibrancy and color.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan: Nutty, salty cheese that binds the sauce and pasta beautifully.
- Chili flakes (optional, for garnish): A subtle kick for those who like their pasta with a little heat.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Begin by boiling your rigatoni in salted water following the package instructions. The pasta should be perfectly al dente so it can soak up the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once done, drain it well and set it aside, ready for its saucy transformation.
Step 2: Season Your Shrimp
Give your shrimp a flavorful boost by seasoning it with half the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. This seasoning combo ensures the shrimp will shine on its own before joining the pasta party.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet until melted and shimmering. Add the shrimp and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pink and just cooked through. Cooking shrimp quickly over medium-high heat seals in their delicate texture. Remove them from the pan and set aside so they don’t overcook while making the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
In that same skillet, toss in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let these cook for about a minute until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning. This step unlocks layers of flavor that give the sauce its unique character.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic and tomato mixture and stir for a minute to cook off the raw taste. Then, slowly whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and double concentrated tomato paste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened and velvety, stirring frequently to keep it smooth and luscious.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil, watching how the sauce transforms, becoming richer and more vibrant. Finally, fold in the cooked shrimp and the rigatoni, making sure every piece is luxuriously coated with sauce and herbs.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Transfer your pasta to plates or bowls while steaming hot. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle chili flakes over the top for a gentle heat kick. This last step brings the dish to life and makes it irresistible.
How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, or a few chili flakes make fantastic garnishes for this pasta. They add pops of color, fresh herbal vibrancy, and a little heat that balances creamy indulgence perfectly.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this rich pasta, helping to cleanse the palate. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is always a winner to scoop up every last bit of that unforgettable sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, plate the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls, layering pasta, shrimp, and sauce with fresh basil on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add an extra citrus burst if desired.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp stays tender, and the sauce thickens and melds even more—just perfect for a quick next-day dinner.
Freezing
Because this dish contains cream and shrimp, freezing is not ideal as the texture of both may change. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a couple of days.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and stir often for even warming. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding sauce, feel free to substitute with penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti depending on your preference or pantry supplies.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast works well to replace Parmesan to maintain a cheesy flavor.
How spicy is the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
The recipe itself is mild but flavorful. Adding chili flakes on top lets you customize the heat level to your liking, making it as gentle or bold as you desire.
Can I substitute frozen shrimp?
Frozen shrimp can work great—just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The entire Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick yet special weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of flavor and indulgence that’s easier to make than you might think. It strikes the perfect balance between elegant and approachable, making it an ideal dish for impressing guests or savoring a cozy night in. Give it a try soon—once you do, it’s sure to secure a prime spot in your recipe rotation and maybe even inspire a marriage proposal or two!
Print
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich tomato cream sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. This easy-to-make recipe combines perfectly cooked rigatoni with a luscious sauce, fresh basil, and a hint of spice, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special enough for company.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 11 oz rigatoni
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and drained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp flour
- ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
Optional Garnish
- Chili flakes
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, keeping it warm for combining with the sauce later.
- Season Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with half the salt, half the black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika to evenly coat them with the spices.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat the olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir to combine with the aromatics. Gradually pour in the low sodium chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and tomato paste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens considerably.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with the drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chili flakes if desired for a spicy kick.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, keeping in mind it may affect creaminess.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used; if so, reduce or omit the olive oil in the pan to avoid excessive oiliness.
- Chili flakes are optional but add a nice spicy contrast to the creamy sauce.
- For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its best texture and flavor.
