Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Spicy Shrimp and Pasta Casserole is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp, the comfort of al dente pasta, and a kick of spice that will leave you craving more. Whether you're a seafood lover, a pasta enthusiast, or just someone looking to impress dinner guests, this recipe is your ticket to a mouthwatering masterpiece that's both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just beginning to curl.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and shrimp. Pour marinara sauce over the mixture and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and edges are slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm, have a mild sea-like smell, and are free from any discoloration.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta just until al dente - it will continue to cook slightly in the oven, so you want to avoid overcooking.
- Spice Control: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Start with less and add more if you like extra kick.
- Cheese Tip: For a more complex flavor, try mixing mozzarella with a bit of parmesan or provolone cheese.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Garnish Game: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp white wine or a light salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 220mg
