Description
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful gluten-free dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich sun-dried tomato and Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with gluten-free penne and fresh spinach. This 35-minute meal combines smoky paprika, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomato oil for a vibrant and comforting pasta experience perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 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)
Sauce
- 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
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 oz gluten free penne
- Fresh basil (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Start by cooking the gluten-free penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the shrimp and sauce.
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated to infuse them with flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for two minutes on each side until they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a C shape. Avoid overcooking until they form an O shape. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to cool.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, onion, diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook for about two minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and aromatic.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle gluten-free flour over the sautéed mixture and stir well to combine. Gradually add vegetable broth, heavy cream, and diced spinach while stirring. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Carefully fold the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce ensuring it is well coated. Gently add the cooked shrimp and stir lightly to combine everything evenly without breaking the shrimp.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the dish for a fresh and aromatic finish. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta.
Notes
- You can substitute gluten-free penne with any gluten-free pasta of your choice.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness; they should form a C shape rather than curling tightly.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the seasonings.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- Make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
