Description
Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
300g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
300g large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add half the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine and bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the cooked pasta and shrimp with the cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly over the top.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this cheesy, hearty delight!
This cheesy shrimp pasta bake is comfort food at its finest!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof bake. First, ensure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid a watery sauce. When cooking the pasta, aim for a firm al dente texture, as it will soften further in the oven. For the sauce, keep the heat at a low simmer after adding the cream to prevent scalding. Stir the cheeses in gradually until fully melted before combining with the pasta and shrimp. When transferring to your baking dish, a light coating of oil or butter prevents sticking and aids in cleaning.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta bake pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance the meal. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic green beans. For a heartier meal, add warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, savory flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook pasta al dente; sauté shrimp with garlic; create a creamy cheese sauce in the same pan; combine all components; top with remaining cheese; bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
What pasta holds up best in a bake? Sturdy, short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal as they trap the sauce and maintain their structure.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk and use a blend of part-skim cheeses. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp initially: They will cook again in the oven, so just sear them until pink to keep them tender.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese: These often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Shredding cheese from a block melts more smoothly.
- Skipping the pasta salt: Salting the boiling water is crucial for seasoning the pasta itself.
- Not letting it rest: Allowing the bake to cool for 5 minutes after oven lets the sauce set slightly for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining succulent seafood with a rich, three-cheese sauce in one comforting dish. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and simple customization makes it a reliable favorite for any occasion. Dig in and enjoy the delicious results of your efforts!