If you are on the lookout for something that effortlessly combines bold flavor, comforting creaminess, and a touch of elegance, the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, punchy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxuriously rich, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite of perfectly cooked gluten-free penne. It’s a harmonious celebration of Italian-inspired ingredients that feels indulgent yet simple enough to prepare on any weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe plays a unique role, whether adding depth of flavor, vibrant color, or silky texture. Here’s what will bring this dish alive in your kitchen.
- Extra-large shrimp: The star protein of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites packed with seafood goodness.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that beautifully complements the shrimp.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses herby warmth and classic Mediterranean notes.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the creamy sauce.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Sun-dried tomato oil: Delivers rich tomato essence and richness directly into the pan.
- Tomato paste: Boosts deep umami flavor and vibrant red color.
- Diced sun-dried tomatoes: Provide chewy bursts of concentrated tanginess and sweetness.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour: Perfect for thickening the sauce without heaviness while keeping this dish gluten-free.
- Fresh spinach: Adds a lovely pop of green and a subtle earthy note that balances the richness.
- Butter: Creates a luscious base for sautéing aromatics and enriching the sauce texture.
- Minced onion and garlic: Build the aromatic foundation with their classic savory punch.
- Vegetable broth: Provides body and subtle flavor depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, lending silky smoothness and indulgent creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to add nuttiness and a savory finish.
- Gluten-free penne pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully and keeps the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Fresh basil: The bright, herbal garnish that brings freshness to every forkful.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking the gluten-free penne pasta following the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the sauce later. This step is crucial because nicely cooked pasta provides that ideal bite to contrast the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
While your pasta is cooking, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. This spice mixture builds a smoky, herby crust on the shrimp during cooking. Heat the flavorful sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet and cook the shrimp for about two to three minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep their perfect texture intact.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. This simple step unlocks the foundational aromatics that create a soul-warming base for the sauce. Adding the gluten-free flour next and cooking it briefly helps thicken the sauce gently without any graininess, ensuring that beautiful creamy consistency you’re after.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Spinach, and Broth
Whisk vegetable broth, tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil into the skillet. Stir in fresh spinach and let the sauce gently thicken over about five minutes. This layer is where the tangy sweetness from the sun-dried tomatoes infuses every bite, while the spinach adds subtle earthiness and bursts of vibrant color. It’s a pleasure just watching the sauce come together.
Step 5: Finish the Creamy Sauce and Add Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes beautifully smooth, rich, and velvety. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. This final step is what makes this recipe so special — a luscious sauce that envelops the shrimp and pasta with indulgent flavor.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Pasta with Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and give everything a gentle stir to coat them in the sauce. Toss in the cooked penne pasta, making sure each noodle is generously covered in that creamy, tomato-kissed goodness. This final toss ensures every bite delivers that perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing off your dish with fresh chopped basil adds a breath of herbal brightness and a stunning pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added layers of savory flavor. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste even more.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables. Garlic bread made with gluten-free bread options is another excellent choice if you want a comforting carb companion to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the creamy sun-dried tomato shrimp pasta in rustic bowls and add edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. Consider plating the shrimp separately on top as a lovely centerpiece or layering some sauce under the pasta for a restaurant-worthy presentation. The vibrant colors and textures make this dish a visual delight as well as a flavorful one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve the texture of the shrimp and the creaminess of the sauce, avoid storing the pasta too long and gently reheat rather than overcooking.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes alter the texture, especially with seafood and cream-based sauces. It’s best to freeze only the cooked shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
To reheat your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe, warm it slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Using the microwave is possible but heat in short intervals and stir in between for even warming and to keep that delightful creaminess intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This prevents excess moisture and helps the shrimp sear beautifully for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free penne pasta and gluten-free all-purpose flour, this dish safely fits into a gluten-free diet without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try half-and-half or a coconut cream alternative for a lighter or dairy-free option, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
How spicy is the dish?
This dish leans more toward flavorful and savory with subtle smokiness and warmth from the paprika and black pepper rather than outright heat. You can always add chili flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party?
Yes, you can prepare elements like the sauce and shrimp ahead and keep the pasta separate. Combine and reheat everything just before serving for fresh-tasting, stress-free dining.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe brings bold ingredients and comforting textures together into one unforgettable meal. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this dish promises layers of flavor, stunning color, and pure satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try — I know it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes when you want something deliciously impressive with minimal fuss!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy shrimp pasta featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a sun-dried tomato and herb-infused sauce, tossed with gluten-free penne and fresh spinach for a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Shrimp Seasoning
- 1 pound extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
- ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon salt
Sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
- 2 ½ tablespoons Cento tomato paste
- ½ cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- â…“ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups diced fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Pasta & Garnish
- 12 oz gluten-free penne pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the gluten-free penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, building a flavor base for the sauce.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, stirring continuously to combine and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Make the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, dried basil, and fresh spinach. Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes, blending the flavors together.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Shrimp with Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked gluten-free penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the shrimp and sauce mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top. Serve the creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use gluten-free flour to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Sun-dried tomato oil adds depth of flavor; do not substitute with plain oil to maintain authenticity.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of your broth and cheese.
- Fresh spinach adds a nice touch of color and nutrition, but baby kale or arugula can be used as alternatives.
- If Parmesan is not available, a similar hard Italian cheese such as Pecorino Romano can be used.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
