Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

Author: Arwa Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings Category: Pasta Cuisine: Italian Diet: Seafood

Ingredients

  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella, shredded
  • Juice from one lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, separated
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 pound large shrimp, shells removed and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
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Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions say. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet 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 cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
  3. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Pour in the wine or broth, along with the lemon juice and zest. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced and fragrant.
  5. Return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley. Optionally finish with an additional squeeze of lemon before serving hot.

Notes

  1. For optimal taste, use fresh ingredients and don't overcook the shrimp. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.