Looking for a dish that’s fast, full of flavor, and totally unforgettable? This marry me pasta recipe checks every box. With its rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, tender mushrooms, wilted spinach, and a parmesan finish, it’s the kind of meal that makes people fall in love—literally. Whether you’re cooking for date night or just craving comfort in a bowl, this one-skillet wonder is ready in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-level taste right from your kitchen. In this article, we’ll walk through the story, step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to help you master this viral recipe at home.
Table of Contents
Marry Me Pasta Recipe: This Creamy Favorite Wins Every Heart
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich, creamy Marry Me Pasta features a bold tomato cream sauce infused with mushrooms, spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s quick, comforting, and fully gluten-free—perfect for busy nights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Mushrooms:
- 1 ½ tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
- 8 oz Baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 12 oz gluten-free penne pasta
- 1 tbsp basil olive oil
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ⅓ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp shallots
- 1 tbsp minced onion
- 2 ½ tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan
- 2 tbsp gluten-free flour
- Chopped basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook Mushrooms:
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté mushrooms with sun-dried tomato oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 2 – Cook Pasta:
While mushrooms cook, boil pasta to al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3 – Build the Sauce:
Push mushrooms to the edges of the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add basil olive oil and butter. Stir in garlic, shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and basil. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4 – Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in gluten-free flour. Gradually add broth, cream, and spinach. Stir well and simmer 5 minutes until thickened and spinach is wilted.
Step 5 – Finish the Pasta:
Add shredded parmesan and stir until melted. Fold in the pasta until well coated. Serve with fresh basil.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the dairy content.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein before serving for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 535g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 1018mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 66mg
How This Marry Me Pasta Recipe Became a Weeknight Favorite
Let me tell you this marry me pasta recipe didn’t just win over my family; it made them beg for seconds before the plates were even cleared. The first time I made it, it was a rushed weeknight between Zoom calls and a forgotten grocery list. All I had was a half-jar of sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and gluten-free penne. But what came out of the skillet? Pure magic.
That rich, creamy tomato sauce clung to every noodle like it meant it. With garlic, shallots, Italian seasoning, and parmesan folded into every bite, it tasted like something from a cozy Italian bistro. Only this one didn’t require a reservation or fancy cookware ,just one skillet, a big spoon, and a hungry crowd.
Cooking has always been how I show love. And this dish? It’s love in pasta form. Whether I’m making a romantic dinner for two or feeding a family of five, this recipe never fails to impress. Even my picky eater who once swore off spinach ,slurped it up like it was dessert.
If you love creamy comfort food that doesn’t take all night to make, you’re going to be hooked on this one. And if you’re craving more pasta ideas, don’t miss our super simple Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe . Both deliver big flavor in record time just like this one.
The Romance Behind the Name (and the Taste!)
So why’s it called marry me pasta? Because it’s so incredibly good, one bite might just get you a proposal. No, seriously ,this dish earned its name from people joking that it’s “marriage material.” And I get it. The first time I made it, my husband looked at me like he wanted to marry me all over again.
There’s something wildly comforting about a dish this creamy and flavorful. Whether you’re single, dating, or married, you deserve a recipe that sparks joy ,and this one does every time. Stay tuned, because next, we’ll break down exactly why this dish works, and how to make it your own.
Why Marry Me Pasta Works
A Creamy Tomato Sauce That Clings to Every Bite
There’s a reason why this marry me pasta recipe keeps showing up on dinner tables everywhere. At the heart of it all is the creamy tomato sauce that hugs every twist of pasta. It’s made with sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, shallots, and just the right amount of heavy cream. When you stir in a generous handful of parmesan, the sauce transforms into something rich, velvety, and bold.
What sets this pasta apart is how each bite balances texture and taste. Baby Bella mushrooms give it a meaty depth without any actual meat, while fresh spinach adds a hint of green and a soft bite that melts into the sauce. Even if you’re not usually a fan of vegetables in pasta, this one might just change your mind.
You can use any short noodle, but penne is perfect. The ridges grab onto the sauce, making sure you get flavor in every forkful. For those avoiding gluten, a quality gluten-free pasta works just as well.
Quick, Customizable, and Crowd-Pleasing
One of the best things about this marry me pasta recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Toss in grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or even leftover roasted veggies. Want a bit of heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick.
This recipe also stores well in the fridge for up to four days, making it great for meal prep. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a full meal. For more easy favorites, don’t miss these bold and satisfying Steak and Pasta Recipes—they’re just as hearty and crowd-pleasing as this one.
Cooking Marry Me Pasta Step-by-Step
Start with the Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor
To build rich, crave-worthy flavor in this marry me pasta recipe, it all begins with the mushrooms. Baby Bella mushrooms are ideal for their texture and umami. Sauté them in sun-dried tomato oil with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until tender and golden brown. That oil brings extra tomato flavor, which gives the sauce an irresistible depth.
While the mushrooms cook, boil your pasta until al dente. Gluten-free penne works beautifully here, but you can swap in any short noodle that holds sauce well. Drain it and set aside, ready for the creamy finish that’s coming next.
The trick to deep flavor without a long cook time is layering. And that’s where this dish shines—once you’ve softened the mushrooms, you push them aside and build the sauce right in the same pan.
Build the Creamy Sauce Like a Pro
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt in some butter with a drizzle of basil-infused olive oil. Add shallots, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and more Italian seasoning. This fragrant base is what gives this marry me pasta recipe its signature aroma. Stir in gluten-free flour to help thicken the sauce, then pour in the vegetable broth, heavy cream, and spinach.
Let it simmer gently until thickened and the spinach wilts. Finish with a generous amount of shredded parmesan, then fold in your cooked pasta. Toss until every bite is coated in creamy, cheesy tomato goodness.
Customizing Marry Me Pasta to Fit Any Table
Add Proteins or Keep It Plant-Based
One of the most appealing things about this marry me pasta recipe is how easily you can make it your own. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious yet flexible. Want more protein? Add it. Prefer to keep it vegetarian? That works too. The sauce is the true star here, and it plays well with just about anything.
If you’re leaning toward a meaty version, grilled chicken breast is a classic choice. Simply season, sear, and slice before stirring it into the creamy sauce. For something a little more elevated, try adding juicy shrimp or thinly sliced steak. The richness of the tomato-cream base wraps around the protein, making every bite feel like something you’d order at a high-end bistro.
Prefer to keep things meatless? No problem. This marry me pasta recipe already includes hearty mushrooms and tender spinach, so you’re starting with a solid base. You can boost the veggie power by adding sautéed zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or even caramelized onions. Want to make it vegan? Swap the heavy cream for full-fat oat milk or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. The flavor will still be bold, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.
Side Dishes and Wine Pairings That Say Yes
When it comes to rounding out this marry me pasta recipe, think simple and fresh. A bright side salad with arugula, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of sea salt balances the creaminess of the dish. Garlic bread is always welcome at the table—especially when it’s used to mop up that last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or cherry tomatoes also make excellent partners on the plate.
As for wine pairings, a chilled rosé or buttery Chardonnay makes a great match. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the cream, enhancing the tomato flavor while cleansing the palate. You don’t need anything too bold or heavy—the pasta brings enough comfort and depth all on its own.
Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this marry me pasta recipe adapts to your needs. It’s a blank canvas packed with flavor and ready for your personal touch. That’s what makes it a true keeper in any kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Pasta
What is in marry me pasta?
This marry me pasta recipe includes tender mushrooms, baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, shallots, and a creamy tomato-based sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan. Italian seasoning, paprika, and basil round out the flavors, creating a rich, comforting dish that’s fast enough for weeknights but special enough for date night.
What is the Italian seasoning in marry me chicken pasta?
The Italian seasoning in this marry me pasta recipe is typically a mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. It gives the creamy tomato sauce its signature depth and balance. Some variations may also include parsley or marjoram for extra aroma and complexity. It’s a simple way to add bold flavor with no extra effort.
Why is it called “marry me pasta”?
The name comes from how irresistibly good this marry me pasta recipe is. The idea is that one bite is so rich and delicious, someone might propose on the spot. It started as a playful phrase on social media but quickly caught on, especially for recipes that blend comfort, creaminess, and bold flavors into one unforgettable meal.
Is Marry Me Chicken better with rice or pasta?
Marry Me Chicken is fantastic with both, but many people prefer it with pasta. This marry me pasta recipe is essentially a spin on the original dish, designed to showcase that creamy sauce in a way that clings to every bite of pasta. The texture of pasta tends to hold the sauce better than rice.
This marry me pasta recipe is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional values provided are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used or portion sizes. Always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian for dietary concerns, allergies, or specific nutrition advice. This recipe contains dairy and should be modified as needed for dietary restrictions. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and skill level.
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