Description
A comforting and easy baked casserole featuring tender shrimp, al dente pasta, a rich garlic butter sauce, and a golden cheesy topping.
Ingredients
1 pound penne pasta (or other medium-sized pasta)
1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails on or off
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until butter is melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta and chopped fresh parsley to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 7: Transfer the shrimp and pasta mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 8: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden-brown crust (watch carefully to prevent burning).
Step 9: Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the garlic sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a noticeable difference in taste compared to pre-grated. Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 210mg