Description
This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta combines tender shrimp with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and fresh parsley. Easy to prepare and full of rich flavors, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter and Sauce Base:
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp jarred minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- â…› tsp salt
- â…› tsp pepper
Cheese and Egg Mixture:
- 1 egg (slightly beaten)
- â…› cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese
Pasta and Seafood:
- 4 oz uncooked pasta (any shape)
- ½ lb raw shrimp, thawed and peeled
Toppings and Garnish:
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and stir briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes bubbly and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes.
- Combine Egg and Cheeses: In a separate bowl, mix together the slightly beaten egg, shredded Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce to create a creamy base.
- Add Shrimp: Stir in the peeled and thawed shrimp into the sauce, cooking until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly with the shrimp and sauce mixture.
- Assemble for Baking: Divide the pasta and shrimp mixture evenly into two prepared baking dishes. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each portion.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dishes in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use any shape of pasta, but short shapes like penne or rotini work well to hold the sauce.
- Fresh garlic can be used instead of jarred if preferred, about 1-2 cloves minced.
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed and peeled before cooking.
- For a richer flavor, substitute chicken broth with white wine.
- Make sure to slightly beat the egg before adding to the sauce to prevent scrambling.
- The baking dishes should be oven-safe and greased lightly to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently in the oven.
