Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that brings together delicious flavors and comforting ingredients. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of shrimp, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a meal that will impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re celebrating a romance or just treating yourself, this recipe will surely delight.
How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, sliced
- 4 Tbsp. tomato oil, divided
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 16 oz. rigatoni or penne
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 (5-oz.) pkg. baby spinach
- 1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1/2 cup), plus more for serving
- Torn fresh basil, for serving
Directions:
- In a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 Tbsp. of tomato oil.
- Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate or bowl.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, cook the garlic, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes with the remaining 2 Tbsp. of tomato oil. Stir until the tomato paste deepens in color, about 1 minute.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, cream, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce reduces slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce and it looks glossy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Cover and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. Give the pasta another stir to coat it well.
- Divide the pasta and shrimp among bowls. Top with fresh basil and more grated Parmesan.
How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta hot, topped with fresh torn basil and extra Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad and a glass of white wine. Enjoy it on a special occasion or a casual evening at home.
How to Store Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Tips to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the level of crushed red pepper to suit your taste for spice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- Make sure to stir the pasta gently to keep the shrimp intact.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta and replace the heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk. This alters the texture but keeps the taste delicious.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Q: What can I substitute for chicken broth?
A: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Most kids enjoy pasta dishes, and you can adjust the spice level to make it milder for them.
