Name: Delicious Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in Just 30 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Rigatoni (Or penne if desired.); 1 lb Medium-Large Shrimp (Peeled and deveined.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tbsp Butter; 3 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Chopped and well-drained.); 2 tbsp Flour (Can swap with cornstarch for gluten-free.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth works too.); 1 cup Heavy Cream; 2 tbsp Tomato Paste; 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated.); 1/4 cup Basil Leaves (Fresh.); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; 1/4 tsp Chili Flakes (Optional.); 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked.); 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Sweet Paprika

“Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring meals!” As a passionate home chef, I can’t get enough of quick, delightful dishes like this 30-Minute Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. With its luscious creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, every bite of succulent shrimp and tender rigatoni feels like a hug on your plate. Not only is this recipe perfect for those romantic evenings at home, but it’s also a fantastic way to impress family or friends during casual gatherings. It’s a true one-pot wonder that allows you to whip up an impressive meal in just half an hour—ideal for hectic weeknights! Curious about how to make this delectable dish your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this shrimp pasta so special?

Speedy Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you crave something delicious.

Irresistible Creaminess: The rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce envelops the shrimp and pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to make.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With bold flavors and a hint of zest from lemon, it’s a guaranteed way to impress family or friends. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or add extra veggies for a personalized twist. Explore other pasta options or even switch up the sauce for an entirely different meal experience.

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a blessing, meaning more time to enjoy your delicious creation rather than washing dishes!

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Rigatoni – A sturdy shape that holds the creamy sauce perfectly, but you can use penne if desired.

For the Shrimp
• Medium-Large Shrimp – Juicy and flavorful; any size works, but the larger ones make a statement!

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor while sautéing the shrimp.
• Butter – Complements the olive oil for a luxurious cooking base.
• Garlic – Minced for a robust flavor boost in the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The star ingredient; make sure they’re well-drained for the best flavor balance.
• Flour – Thickens the creamy sauce; swap with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth – Helps deglaze the skillet and adds depth; vegetable broth works too.
• Heavy Cream – Provides the velvety creaminess—skip lighter options for that indulgent feel.
• Tomato Paste – Enhances the sauce’s richness with a subtle sweetness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for a savory kick; Pecorino can be a fine substitute.
• Basil Leaves – Fresh leaves bring brightness; parsley is a suitable swap.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and balances the creaminess beautifully.
• Chili Flakes – For a dash of heat, you can add this optional ingredient to personalize your dish.

Seasonings
• Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked adds a lovely warmth.
• Garlic Powder – Useful for an extra layer of flavor on the shrimp.
• Sweet Paprika – Adds a mild sweetness and a beautiful color to the dish.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating your own delectable Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining medium-large shrimp if they’re not pre-prepared. In a bowl, season the shrimp with sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning not only enhances their natural flavor but also ensures they’re deliciously aromatic once cooked. Set the seasoned shrimp aside while you gather the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Prep the Aromatics
Mince 3 cloves of garlic, grate about ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, and chop ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes along with a handful of fresh basil leaves. Having everything prepared ahead of time will streamline your cooking process, making the assembly of the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a breeze. Set these prepped ingredients aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of rigatoni, cooking until it reaches al dente, which should take about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water; this will help adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 4: Sear the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until sizzling. Add the seasoned shrimp and sear for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside; they’ll be added back in later.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and any remaining salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute, then sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring to incorporate and deglaze the skillet with 1 cup of chicken broth. Let this simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens. The cream should be well incorporated, creating a luscious sauce that envelops your ingredients beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the lemon juice and chopped basil to the creamy sauce, mixing well. Gradually stir in the drained rigatoni and seared shrimp, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency, keeping the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta creamy and luscious.

Step 8: Serve Hot
Once fully combined, serve your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta immediately, optionally topping with a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick and a bit more grated Parmesan for garnish. The vibrant colors and creamy texture will make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for impressing your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Drain Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Ensure you properly drain the sun-dried tomatoes to prevent an oily sauce and enhance flavor balance in your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
Thickening Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, save some pasta water to gradually adjust the consistency while keeping it creamy and luscious.
Sear Shrimp Perfectly: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should just turn pink and opaque after about 2 minutes per side for the best texture.
Prep Ahead: Mince garlic, chop sun-dried tomatoes, and get your ingredients ready beforehand to speed up cooking time and enjoy a hassle-free dinner experience.
Consider Additions: Feel free to incorporate a handful of spinach for added nutrition and color before mixing in the pasta; it complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.

What to Serve with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the creamy richness of your shrimp pasta.

Crispy Garlic Bread: A perfect partner, this bread adds a delightful crunch and endless garlic flavor for dipping in the creamy sauce.
Fresh Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, complementing the rich pasta beautifully with each bite.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor to your meal, enhancing the overall dish’s elegance.
Zesty Lemonade: A glass of refreshing lemonade cuts through the creaminess, adding a bright touch of citrus that pairs well with seafood.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the shrimp while adding a sophisticated touch to your meal.
Seasoned Grilled Zucchini: This grilled vegetable option adds texture and a smoky flavor, creating a balanced plate that enhances your dining experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note; this rich dessert makes for the ultimate romantic finish, contrasting perfectly with the savory pasta.

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!

Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken for a hearty twist. Simply season and cook as you would the shrimp for a satisfying meal.
Tofu Option: For a vegetarian delight, swap shrimp with firm tofu. Pan-sear the tofu cubes until golden brown to enhance flavor and texture.
Zucchini Noodles: Make it low-carb by using spiralized zucchini noodles instead of rigatoni. Cook them just until tender for a fresh alternative.
Cauliflower Gnocchi: For a gluten-free option, use cauliflower gnocchi. It soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, offering a lovely twist.
Roasted Red Peppers: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor. Their smoky sweetness will create a different yet delicious profile.
Extra Veggies: Add peas or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and a pop of color. They will blend in nicely and boost the overall flavor.
Seafood Medley: Mix in scallops or crab meat alongside the shrimp for an elegant seafood extravaganza. Simply add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
Heat Factor: Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will awaken your taste buds and make each bite an adventure!

For additional inspirations, you might want to try the delightful flavors of One Pot Pasta or whip up a vibrant Italian Tortellini Pasta. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy your culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap first.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or cream over low heat for the best texture.

Quality Tip: To ensure the flavors stay vibrant, consume your frozen pasta within the suggested timeframes. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta in advance is a breeze, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and marinate the shrimp and prep all your ingredients (like mincing garlic and chopping sun-dried tomatoes) up to 24 hours ahead to save time. Store the prepared components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and follow the sauce instructions, adding the shrimp in the last steps. This way, you’ll still enjoy that rich, creamy flavor and satisfying texture of the dish with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights feel a little bit more special!

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

What size of shrimp should I use for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Opt for medium-large shrimp to get that juicy, flavorful bite! Any size works, but larger shrimp make a lovely statement in your dish.

How should I store left over Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing, which helps maintain freshness.

Can I freeze my Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat frozen Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Thaw your pasta overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore that creamy texture. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Why is my sauce too thin, and how can I fix it?
If your sauce ends up too thin, don’t worry! Just save some of the pasta water and add it gradually to the sauce while cooking. This keeps it creamy and helps thicken it to your liking.

Are there any dietary considerations for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta?
Great question! This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting flour with cornstarch. For dairy-free options, use a non-dairy cream such as coconut cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. Always be mindful of any shellfish allergies when serving shrimp!