Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe

Indulge your taste buds with this mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake. This dish combines succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. From a family dinner to a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces of penne pasta

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 1 cup of chicken broth

• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

2. Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the lemon zest and juice, and let the mixture cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

4. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and creamy sauce. Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes if using.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

8. Garnish and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake!

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.

• Pasta Choices: While penne is great for this recipe, feel free to substitute with fusilli or rotini for a different texture.

• Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, consider adding spinach or peas to the pasta mixture before baking.

• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Assemble the pasta bake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this creamy pasta bake with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. Complement the meal with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which enhances the lemony flavors beautifully.

Variations and Dietary Preferences

For those with dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
• Protein Options: For a different protein, swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even a plant-based protein.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the beauty of your Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake by showcasing the layers and textures. Use a rustic wooden table as your backdrop, and consider placing fresh lemon slices and herbs around the dish for a pop of color.

Further Reading

If you want to expand your culinary skills, check out these articles on:

• Cooking techniques for perfect shrimp
• How to make homemade pasta
• Tips for enhancing flavors with herbs and spices

Encourage your friends to join you in the kitchen and try this delightful recipe together. Share your creations on social media and inspire others to explore the joy of cooking!

Glossary of Terms

• Al Dente: Italian term meaning “to the tooth,” used to indicate pasta that is cooked until firm to the bite.
• Deveined: The process of removing the dark vein from shrimp, which is actually the digestive tract.

With this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting and satisfying. Happy cooking!