Easy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

If you’re craving a dish that’s both indulgently creamy and packed with vibrant flavors, this Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone is exactly what you need. It combines tender shrimp, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the luxurious silkiness of mascarpone cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe balances richness and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights without sacrificing flavor.
• Creamy Comfort: The mascarpone adds a smooth, velvety texture that turns pasta into a decadent treat.
• Bright Flavors: Sun-dried tomatoes deliver a tangy sweetness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Easily adaptable with different pastas or additions like spinach or herbs.
• Impressive Presentation: Feels fancy enough for guests but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture. From plump shrimp to rich mascarpone, each item is essential for an unforgettable meal.

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined for tender, juicy bites.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with concentrated sweetness and tang to brighten the sauce.
• Mascarpone Cheese: Offers the creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing shrimp and garlic to build flavor layers.
• White Wine (optional): Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: For a fresh herbaceous finish.
• Pasta: Choose your favorite type — linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work wonderfully.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): To sprinkle on top for extra savory goodness.

Variations for Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

This recipe lends itself nicely to creativity and customization, so feel free to make it your own. You can easily adapt it according to your pantry, dietary preferences, or cravings.

• Swap the Shrimp: Use chicken, scallops, or a mix of seafood for variety.
• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts.
• Different Cheeses: Try cream cheese or ricotta for a slightly different creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to keep this dish friendly for all diets.

How to Make Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil, then cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining — this will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a minute to release their flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Mascarpone

Pour in white wine if using and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and stir in mascarpone cheese until melted and smooth, forming a luscious creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, mixing gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick.

Step 6: Finish with Herbs and Cheese

Stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Use Fresh Garlic: It adds the brightest flavor compared to garlic powder or pre-minced versions.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It contains starch that helps thicken and bind the sauce to the noodles.
• Choose Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed in oil delivers the best flavor and richness.
• Keep Mascarpone at Room Temperature: It blends more smoothly into the sauce, preventing clumps.

How to Serve Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest to add a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus to balance the creamy pasta with something light and fresh, or crusty garlic bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone in shallow bowls and drizzle a little quality olive oil on top for shine. Add a few extra sun-dried tomatoes or a sprig of fresh herb as a finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days. The pasta will absorb sauce overnight, so it may seem thicker upon reheating.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce is best fresh, you can freeze leftover pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring gently until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use dried shrimp instead of fresh?

For the best taste and texture, fresh or frozen shrimp is recommended, but if dried shrimp is all you have, soak them before cooking and expect a different texture.

Is mascarpone cheese similar to cream cheese?

Mascarpone is milder and creamier than cream cheese, with a smoother texture that melts beautifully in sauces.

Can I prepare this dish without alcohol?

Yes, simply skip the white wine or replace it with a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice for acidity.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Long strands like linguine or fettuccine work wonderfully to hold the creamy sauce, but penne or rigatoni are great too for catching bits of shrimp and tomatoes.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Cook the sauce gently on low heat and avoid boiling once mascarpone is added; stirring constantly helps maintain a smooth consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone is a delicious way to bring restaurant-worthy flavors into your kitchen without hassle. Creamy, vibrant, and satisfying, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for many meals to come. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the dinner table!

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