Baked Seafood Pasta: Creamy Restaurant-Style Dinner Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with our baked seafood pasta recipe. This dish combines the succulence of shrimp, crab, and scallops with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily recreate in your own kitchen, perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to a special dinner.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This creamy baked seafood pasta recipe is ideal for seafood lovers who crave a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s versatile enough to be a cozy family dinner or an elegant dish for entertaining. The combination of different seafood adds depth and luxury, while the creamy sauce and golden cheese topping make it irresistibly comforting.
Ingredients List
◾ 16 oz penne pasta
◾ 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, crab meat, scallops)
◾ 2 cups heavy cream
◾ 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
◾ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
◾ 4 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 1 tbsp olive oil
◾ 1 tsp dried basil
◾ 1 tsp dried oregano
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Seafood
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Carefully add your mixed seafood to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Add the dried basil and oregano, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, seafood, and creamy sauce. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baked seafood pasta from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade restaurant-style seafood pasta bake!
Nutritional Information
This baked seafood pasta is rich in protein from the seafood and calcium from the cheese. It’s also a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta.
Calories per Person
Approximately 650-700 calories per serving.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this dish lighter, consider using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of cheese, or substituting half the cream with low-fat milk. You could also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach or roasted bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy pasta bake with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the seafood flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the seafood in the initial sauté, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, be careful not to overbake the dish, as this can dry out the pasta and seafood.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it for an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What other types of pasta can I use?
Feel free to substitute penne with other short pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or shells. These shapes hold the sauce well and are easy to eat.
Is this dish spicy?
As written, this recipe is not spicy. If you prefer some heat, add red pepper flakes to taste or serve with hot sauce on the side.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This baked seafood pasta is a delightful way to bring the flavors of a high-end seafood restaurant to your dinner table. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
