Shrimp Scampi Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic pasta dish, bringing together succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich butter in a comforting bake. Perfect for home cooks and seafood lovers, this casserole is an easy yet elegant meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouth-watering casserole:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- If your shrimp isn’t already peeled and deveined, start by removing the shell and vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce by half.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until slightly thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
4. Combine and Assemble
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and scampi sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Choosing Ingredients
Shrimp
- Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works well too—just be sure to thaw them completely before using.
Pasta
- Linguine or spaghetti are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has more flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
Variations and Customizations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Swap the Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chunks of firm white fish for a different seafood experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the casserole.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Shrimp Scampi Casserole as much as we do! Feel free to share your creations and feedback with us—your input helps us create even better recipes. Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family!
Happy cooking!
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