Imagine a plate of buttery shrimp pasta, with hints of garlic and zesty lemon that instantly transport you to the coast. This Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake combines all the delightful flavors of a relaxing beach vacation into one comforting dish. The perfect blend of shrimp, creamy sauce, and melted cheeses, with a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Servings: 4-6)
12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing it for a perfectly baked, cheesy dish.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, ready to be coated in that glorious sauce.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing them for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, cooking them until pink and opaque, around 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour 1/2 cup of white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer) into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for about 2 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, followed by the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing everything to coat the pasta in the creamy lemon-garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a large baking dish. Place the cooked shrimp on top of the pasta. Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, ensuring a cheesy, bubbly finish.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, golden brown around the edges.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich flavors of your seaside-inspired creation.
Variations & Tips
Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter touch, or use a dairy-free option if needed.
Substitute Protein: If you aren’t a fan of shrimp, you can easily swap it for cooked chicken or vegetables such as broccoli and bell peppers.
Crunchy Topping: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs over the top before baking for a crunchy, golden crust.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the red pepper flakes, or omit them altogether.
Add Greens: For extra nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach or kale when mixing the pasta with the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
The Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake brings the flavors of a relaxing beach vacation to your kitchen. With its creamy, cheesy texture, the dish feels indulgent but still light enough for any day of the week. Perfect for a family dinner or an intimate gathering with friends, this dish will surely be a crowd favorite. Whether you’re pairing it with a crisp green salad or enjoying it on its own, each bite will take you back to the serene comfort of the sea.
Serving Suggestions
Green Salad: Pair this dish with a fresh, simple green salad to add a bit of crunch and contrast to the creamy pasta.
Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony, garlicky flavors wonderfully.
Enjoy the buttery, garlicky goodness of this Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed trip to the coast without leaving your kitchen!
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