Baked Seafood Pasta with Shrimp and Crab

Introduction

Indulge in a culinary masterpiece with our Baked Seafood Pasta, a symphony of flavors featuring succulent shrimp and sweet crab meat. This dish is a delightful blend of creamy textures, savory seafood, and perfectly baked pasta, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this baked pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Making the Perfect Baked Seafood Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces crab meat, lump or claw meat
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Seafood: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a smooth roux forms. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab meat to the sauce. Gently toss to combine.
5. Bake the Pasta: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and Gruyere cheese (if using). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Let the baked pasta rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Seafood Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Overcooked shrimp and crab will become rubbery. Cook them just until they are cooked through.
• Use High-Quality Seafood: Fresh, high-quality shrimp and crab meat will make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as asparagus, peas, or mushrooms to the pasta. Sauté them along with the garlic.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Conclusion

Our Baked Seafood Pasta with Shrimp and Crab is a truly exceptional dish, offering a rich and satisfying experience for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. The creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and the delicate flavors of shrimp and crab combine to create a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow our easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable baked pasta!

Happy Cooking!