If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both creamy and flavorful while being quick to prepare, then look no further! Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce is the answer to your culinary prayers. Picture golden shrimp nestled in tender pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, zesty garlic sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing! You won’t just be satisfying a hunger pang; you’ll be treating your family to a delightful dining experience that feels special yet is so simple to whip up. Did you know that pasta dishes are beloved across the globe, transcending cultures and bringing people together? This dish is perfect for weeknights, intimate gatherings, or any occasion that deserves a touch of gourmet magic! So, if you love our other popular recipes like Cheesy Baked Ziti, you are sure to be enchanted by this one. Let’s dive into making this delicious meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!
What is Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce?
Ah, what a delightful name we have here — Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce! It’s a mouthful that rolls off the tongue just like the dish rolls off your plate! But seriously, have you ever pondered why we combine such long phrases to describe our food? Perhaps it’s because, much like your aunt’s endless stories at family gatherings, this name has layers! “Creamy,” “baked,” “shrimp,” “pasta,” and that alluring “lemon garlic sauce” — it’s like a delicious soap opera waiting to unfold on your dinner table! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I’m pretty sure this dish has a direct route. Ready to give it a whirl and impress your loved ones? I assure you, you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
This delightful dish has several reasons to fall head over heels for it. First and foremost, the creamy goodness of the sauce combined with luscious shrimp creates an unforgettable flavor explosion that awakens your palate! Secondly, making this scrumptious meal at home is a pocket-friendly option compared to dining out — not to mention, you control the ingredients. Grab some fresh shrimp and pasta, along with that zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, and you’ve got yourself a winner! There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Plus, this dish stands shoulder to shoulder with other favorites like Chicken Alfredo, so it’s time to explore those recipes too!
How to Make Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Quick Overview
Preparing Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a breeze! With just a few steps, you can create a dish that’s deeply satisfying and full of flavor, all ready in around 30 minutes! Its lovely creamy texture, complemented by the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic, makes it a winner for any occasion.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the heavy cream, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the shrimp mixture, tossing until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a bit more Parmesan cheese on top and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon zest before serving. Enjoy your delicious, creamy masterpiece!
What to Serve Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce With
Pair your Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce with a crisp garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread makes a perfect companion, soaking up any delicious sauce left on the plate. For a drink, consider serving a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon, to enhance the zesty flavors of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Tailor the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, skip the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you love a kick, feel free to add more!
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking for lighter options, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substituting shrimp with chicken or vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, or reheat in a skillet over low heat. If you prefer to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months; just reheat it straight from the freezer in the oven until thoroughly warmed.
Dive into the creamy, zesty world of Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce. It’s simple, it’s tasty, and it’s bound to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!
Creamy Baked Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In the same pan, add the heavy cream, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the shrimp mixture, tossing until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a bit more Parmesan cheese on top and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon zest before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious, creamy masterpiece!
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