There’s something so comforting about a shrimp and pasta casserole; it’s like a warm hug from the inside out. I remember the first time I tasted such a dish; it was a chilly autumn evening, and Mama Lou had just pulled a bubbling casserole from the oven. The aroma filled the kitchen, wrapping around us like a cozy blanket. Mama Lou had a way of turning simple ingredients into a celebration, and that night, with the soft jazz playing in the background and Ouma laughing beside me, was no exception. This shrimp and pasta casserole became a family staple, each bite reminiscent of laughter, love, and shared stories around the dinner table.
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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Pasta Casserole
This shrimp and pasta casserole is a dish that brings people together. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in. The combination of tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, makes it irresistible. What I love most is its versatility and how it can be adapted to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish will surely be a hit. It’s a reminder of simpler times, much like the evenings spent in Mama Lou’s kitchen, surrounded by the warmth of family and the smell of something delicious in the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Shrimp and Pasta Casserole
Gathering the ingredients for this dish is like preparing for a little culinary adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound |
| Penne pasta | 2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Feel free to make substitutions as needed. You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist or swap the heavy cream for a lighter cream alternative. Mama Lou always said a recipe is just a guide—your heart and taste buds lead the way.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this delightful casserole:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 760mg |
Keep in mind these values might vary slightly based on the specific brands or ingredients you use.
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Irresistible Shrimp and Pasta Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
A comforting shrimp and pasta casserole that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for this dish is like preparing for a little culinary adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound |
| Penne pasta | 2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Feel free to make substitutions as needed. You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist or swap the heavy cream for a lighter cream alternative. Mama Lou always said a recipe is just a guide—your heart and taste buds lead the way.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta and mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: undefined
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: undefined
- Sodium: undefined
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: undefined
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Steps to Create Your Shrimp and Pasta Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s kitchen, where the scent of garlic meant something delicious was on its way.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring gently to incorporate the garlic and butter. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, then whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired for a golden crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. As you wait, take a moment to relax with a cup of tea, as Mama Lou would—reflecting on how food brings joy to our lives.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Shrimp and Pasta Casserole
Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time:
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh is always preferable.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Remember, it will cook a little more in the oven, so al dente is what you’re aiming for.
For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist.
These little touches make the dish truly yours, much like the variations Mama Lou would experiment with, always keeping the family’s taste buds delighted.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This shrimp and pasta casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the casserole. A slice of garlic bread is also a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce. For a beverage, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish nicely, balancing the flavors and enhancing the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven method maintains the dish’s texture better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Rotini, fusilli, or even farfalle work well in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been refrigerated.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Certainly! Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This shrimp and pasta casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to cherished memories and the people we hold dear. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to those evenings with Mama Lou and Ouma, where the kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and delicious aromas. I hope this recipe brings the same warmth and joy to your home, creating its own set of memories for you and your loved ones.
