Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Published on: January 12, 2026

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that can sweep anyone off their feet. With tender shrimp coated in a rich, creamy sauce served over perfectly cooked gluten-free penne, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. Ready to discover a meal that might just lead to an unforgettable evening? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

1 pound extra large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
3/4 tbsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp black pepper
3/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
2 1/2 tbsp Cento tomato paste
1/2 cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1/3 tsp sweet smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 tsp dried basil
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
2 cups diced spinach
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp minced onion
2 tbsp minced garlic
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
12 oz gluten-free penne

How To Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Step-by-Step

Time Breakdown

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Directions

For the Shrimp

Begin by seasoning the shrimp. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the shrimp are well coated.
Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

For the Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the gluten-free flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet slowly, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps.
Add the tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Stir well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Fold in the cooked shrimp and spinach, letting the spinach wilt slightly.
Cook the gluten-free penne according to package instructions, then drain and add it to the skillet, tossing it with the shrimp and sauce until everything is well combined.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips About Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp can be tough and chewy.
Creaminess Level: Adjust the amount of heavy cream to your desired creaminess. You can use less for a lighter sauce.
Adding Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Shrimp Type: You can use any type of shrimp that you prefer, but extra-large shrimp hold up well in this dish.
Made Ahead: You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just add the shrimp and spinach when you’re ready to serve.

Reasons Why You’ll Love Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that you’ll crave.
Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne makes this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Comfort Food: It’s a cozy, hearty meal that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Pair this dish with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Serve with garlic bread for a more filling dinner experience.
A glass of white wine complements the shrimp and creamy sauce beautifully.
Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.

Tips For Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, high-quality olive oil, and fresh herbs enhance the flavors.
Prepare Everything Beforehand: Keep all the ingredients ready to streamline the cooking process.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings according to your personal taste preferences.
Keep Pasta Al Dente: When cooking the gluten-free penne, ensure it remains firm to the bite for better texture in the dish.

Flavor Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition and flavor.
Switch Protein: Instead of shrimp, use chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Creamy Tomato Variation: Use crushed tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a different sauce base.
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like dill or thyme for a unique twist on traditional flavors.

How To Store Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth or cream to retain creaminess.
Avoid Over-Microwaving: If using a microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Portion Control: Consider portioning leftovers into single servings for easy lunches.

FAQs About Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Can I use other types of shrimp? Yes, you can use any size shrimp you prefer, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! It reheats well and is perfect for meal prep lunches.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this dish.

Closing Notes

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is an elegant dish that can impress anyone at the dinner table. With its creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and comforting pasta, it holds the power to make any meal feel special. Fresh ingredients and easy preparation bring this recipe to life, making it a wonderful choice for both weeknights and date nights. Try it out, and you might just find yourself falling in love with your cooking all over again!