Description
Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender shrimp, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and rich mascarpone cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make meal balances freshness and comfort, perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen peeled shrimp
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine or broth
- 10 oz linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti pasta
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Garnish and Herbs
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain, reserving one cup of the pasta water, and set pasta aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook until softened, releasing their flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper while cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing.
- Deglaze and Create the Sauce: Pour in the white wine or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it reduce slightly, then lower the heat and stir in mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat evenly and heat through for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Use full-fat mascarpone cheese to achieve the richest and creamiest sauce.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they should be just pink and firm.
- Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce as needed and help emulsify it.
- Add fresh herbs right before serving to preserve their fresh flavor and vibrant color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg