Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 15 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with rich flavors, vibrant colors, and that perfect touch of indulgence, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. It combines tender, juicy shrimp with a luscious, velvety sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, tossed with gluten-free penne for a meal that feels both fancy and comfortingly familiar. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special weekend dinner, this recipe delivers a stunning balance of zest, creaminess, and a hint of smoky sweetness that your taste buds will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl at the top holds a layer of raw, peeled shrimp in pale gray-white shades with curved shapes. To the right, two small clear bowls contain chopped green herbs and white flour, while below them is a larger clear bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves, crisp and lively. To the left of the spinach is a transparent measuring cup with golden-brown liquid, and nearby a small bowl holds finely minced garlic in a light beige tone. In the center, there is a white bag of gluten-free penne pasta with blue and brown text. Surrounding these main items are small clear bowls with seasoning mixes in black, green, and white colors, a tiny pile of red tomato paste, a small clear container of honey-colored liquid, and a white bowl filled with finely shredded pale yellow cheese. At the bottom right is a small piece of pale butter on the white marbled surface. A gray and white striped cloth is crumpled in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe has a key role to play, whether it’s layering in flavor, adding texture, or bringing that gorgeous color to the plate. Using simple, quality ingredients is what makes this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe so irresistible and easy to prepare.

Extra large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined for quick cooking and a tender bite.
Smoked paprika (1/2 tbsp): Adds a subtle smoky depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Italian seasoning (3/4 tbsp + 1 tbsp): A blend of herbs that brightens every component of the dish.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Just enough to add a gentle kick.
Salt (3/4 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Balances and enhances all the savory notes.
Sun-dried tomato oil (1 1/2 tbsp): Infuses the shrimp with that unmistakable sun-kissed flavor.
Cento tomato paste (2 1/2 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce.
Cento sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, diced): Adds chewy bursts of tangy sweetness throughout.
Sweet smoked paprika (1/3 tsp): Introduces a mellow smokiness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Dried basil (3/4 tsp): Brings a slightly sweet herbal fragrance to the sauce.
Gluten free 1:1 flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce beautifully without gluten concerns.
Diced spinach (2 cups): Adds freshness, color, and a touch of earthiness.
Butter (2 tbsp): Creates the rich, silky base of the sauce.
Minced onion (2 tbsp): Gives the sauce a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Brings that essential sharp and savory punch.
Vegetable broth (2 cups): Adds depth and moisture while keeping the sauce light.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and luscious mouthfeel.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce adding a salty, nutty dimension.
Fresh basil (chopped): For garnish, lending a burst of herbal brightness and fresh color.
Gluten free penne (12 oz): The perfect pasta shape for holding sauce and providing satisfying chew.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling the gluten free penne according to the package instructions for al dente. Getting the pasta just right is essential since it will soak up all the delicious sauce without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix gives the shrimp a lively, savory base that shines through after cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the shrimp. Cook for two minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque, and form a nice C shape – avoiding overcooking ensures they stay tender and juicy.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic, onion, diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Let this fragrant mix sauté for about two minutes – this step builds the deep, comforting backbone of the sauce.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Stir in the gluten free flour to the aromatic mixture to help thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, adding the diced spinach as well. Continue cooking for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened nicely and the spinach has wilted. Finally, fold in the parmesan cheese until everything is silky smooth.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp with Sauce

Gently stir the drained pasta into the creamy sauce, making sure every penne is coated. Then, fold in the cooked shrimp carefully to prevent them from breaking apart. The result is a perfectly balanced dish, with succulent shrimp nestled in a rich, flavorful sauce ready to impress.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a blue pan filled with creamy pasta. The pasta is tube-shaped and covered in a thick, light orange sauce with small green basil pieces scattered on top. There are several cooked shrimp, some browned and others coated in sauce, mixed evenly throughout the pasta. Next to the pan on the right is a white bowl full of plain cooked pasta. In the bottom right corner, some fresh basil leaves rest on a light brown wooden board. The surface under the pan is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil on top not only adds a pop of bright color but also lifts the flavors with a fresh, herbal note. For an extra touch, you can add a few red pepper flakes or a little lemon zest to brighten the dish even further.

Side Dishes

Pair this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe with a light, crisp salad such as an arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted asparagus or garlic bread (gluten free, if needed) work beautifully as well to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and add a generous handful of grated parmesan right at the table. You can also drizzle a little extra sun-dried tomato oil over the top before serving or add edible flowers for a stunning visual. Presentation matters and makes the meal feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to freeze the sauce and shrimp separately from the pasta to avoid sogginess. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags and use within two months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help bring back the luscious texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make the shrimp tough.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten free?

Absolutely! Regular pasta works beautifully in this recipe if gluten is not a concern. Just cook it al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but keep in mind the texture won’t be quite as rich and velvety.

Is sun-dried tomato oil necessary?

Using sun-dried tomato oil truly enhances the authenticity and depth of flavor, but you can substitute with olive oil if necessary. You’ll just lose a bit of that distinct tomato aroma.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use a dairy-free cream substitute, and choose a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy richness.

How spicy is this dish?

This pasta has a gentle smokiness and herbal warmth, but it isn’t spicy hot. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress family or friends with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of meal that feels thoughtfully gourmet but is incredibly easy to pull together. Next time you want something comforting, flavorful, and just a bit special, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!