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Quick & Creamy Shrimp Pasta Bake for Dinner

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This baked pasta dish features tender shrimp nestled among strands of spaghetti, all coated in a rich, savory garlic-lemon butter sauce. A creamy element is introduced, and the entire dish is topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley, creating a comforting and flavorful meal with a golden finish from the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp just begin to turn pink. Do not fully cook them at this stage.
  4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
  6. Add the cooked spaghetti and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the shrimp are fully cooked through.
  9. Remove from oven, garnish with additional fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure shrimp are not overcooked in the skillet, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spice.

If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water can be added when combining with the spaghetti.

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