Description
A quick and creamy shrimp pasta dish that combines bright lemon, warm garlic, and gooey cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (shells removed and deveined)
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles
Sauce Components
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth (Broth can be used as a substitute for wine.)
- 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley (chopped) (Can substitute with basil or chives.)
- 5 cloves fresh garlic (finely minced)
- 2 tablespoons juice from one lemon (Approximately 2 tablespoons.)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Cheese
- 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella (shredded)
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (Use fresh if possible for more flavor.)
Seasonings and Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (separated into two portions)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional) (Add more for extra spice.)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (Adjust according to taste.)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente approximately 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Searing the Shrimp
- Heat the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet set over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place shrimp in the skillet and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
Making the Sauce
- In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in the wine (or broth), along with the lemon juice and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat it in the garlic-butter mixture. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan and half of the chopped parsley. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
Baking
- Transfer the combined shrimp and pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly across the top.
- Place the baking dish, uncovered, into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and develops a golden hue.
Serving
- Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley. Optionally, finish with an additional squeeze of lemon before serving hot.
Notes
Serve straight from the baking dish. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or warm crusty bread. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course, Pasta
- Cuisine: Italian