Parmesan Crusted Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe Guide

Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish known for its simple yet luxurious flavors. Combining succulent shrimp with garlic, lemon, and butter, this dish has won the hearts of many. However, we’re adding a twist by introducing a Parmesan crust to create a delightful texture contrast. This recipe takes inspiration from the traditional shrimp scampi but elevates it to a whole new level with the addition of crispy, cheesy shrimp paired with perfectly cooked pasta. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish and explore its origins, ingredients, and cooking methods.

Origins and Interesting Facts

Shrimp scampi is an American adaptation of the Italian dish “Scampi,” which traditionally used small lobster-like crustaceans known as langoustines. In the United States, the lack of langoustines led to the use of shrimp as a substitute, and the dish evolved to include garlic, butter, and lemon—a combination that complements the delicate flavor of shrimp. Our version adds a Parmesan crust, inspired by popular variations like the Baked Parmesan Shrimp Scampi Cooper’s Hawk.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta or your pasta of choice
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Additions

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• 1 tablespoon capers for a briny twist
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, for a pop of color

Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each shrimp in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden and crispy.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Making the Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles in the sauce. If the pasta looks dry, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Stir in the remaining butter, allowing it to melt and create a glossy sauce.

Combining Everything

1. Add the baked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them with the pasta.
2. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately, either family-style or in individual bowls.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

• Choosing Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. They should be peeled and deveined before cooking.
• Pasta: While angel hair is classic, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine for a heartier dish.
• Crispy Coating: For extra crispiness, broil the shrimp for 1-2 minutes after baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Baked Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta: Follow the same steps but use angel hair pasta to achieve a light and delicate dish.
• Parmesan Shrimp Pasta: Add heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier version.
• Shrimp Scampi with a Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for additional layers of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

This Parmesan Crusted Shrimp Scampi With Pasta is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. The crispy Parmesan shrimp and light, flavorful pasta create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will delight your palate. This dish is ideal for a special dinner or a simple weeknight meall.