If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting dish, this shrimp tetrazzini is just the ticket. It’s creamy and savory, with a touch of zest that makes it a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, it showcases fresh seafood flavors that are hard to resist!
Solves weeknight dinner fatigue by delivering a hearty seafood bake in under an hour, using affordable ingredients, preventing dry pasta, and simplifying cleanup.
I often struggle with finding meals that everyone in my family can enjoy, especially with my mother’s gluten allergy. This shrimp tetrazzini recipe is easy to adjust, so it works for our needs while still being a hit with friends and guests. It’s nice to have a go-to dish that doesn’t leave anyone out!
This recipe comes together quickly, taking just about 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to cook. The creamy sauce is rich but not too heavy, making it a comforting meal without the guilt. And the seafood cooks up perfectly tender every time, so there’s no worry about overdoing it.
If you love seafood and want something special for dinner, this is for you! If you need a sweet treat afterwards, check out this recipe for some delightful dessert options.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture : The creamy sauce with prawns and clams adds a luxurious touch without weighing you down. It’s comforting yet doesn’t feel overly heavy.
- Flavorful Burst : With zesty hints of lemon and earthy thyme, each bite is a delightful mix of savory seafood goodness that keeps you coming back for more.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into a busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor or quality. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : It stores well in the fridge for a few days, so you can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy effortless meals later in the week.
Creamy Seafood Tetrazzini Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cool Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy creamy seafood tetrazzini featuring shrimp.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti, gluten free if necessary
- 1 stick (113 g) unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/41/2 teaspoon fresh thyme (plus more for garnish)
- 1/41/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup (240 ml) white wine
- 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp
- 6.5 oz (184 g) chopped clams
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) half and half (or milk)
- juice from 1 lemon
- 1/21/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (50 g) panko
Instructions
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Start by cooking the spaghetti until it is just slightly underdone. You will know it is ready when there is a bit of a bite to it. If it is cooked too long now, it could turn mushy in the oven.
- Make the Sauce: Next, heat the unsalted butter in a dutch oven until it is melted and bubbly. Be careful not to let it brown too much, or the sauce will end up tasting burnt.
- Add in Seafood: Incorporate the shrimp and chopped clams into the pan when the sauce is looking creamy. The shrimp will change color, becoming opaque, indicating it is cooking through. Be cautious to avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the seafood and sauce mixture. The pasta should soak up all those flavors and help thicken the sauce. Avoid stirring too vigorously, as this may break the pasta apart.
- Bake Until Golden: Transfer everything into the casserole dish and bake until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it does not burn on top before cooking through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and to avoid a runny mess on your plate.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Expert Tips: Prepare ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.
- If the sauce feels too thick while cooking, a splash of additional cream or milk can help thin it out.
- For a spicier kick, increase the paprika to elevate the flavor.
- When baking, cover with foil halfway through to prevent the topping from burning.
- If your pasta is undercooked after baking, ensure you cook it just slightly less than al dente before mixing into the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 726
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 345mg
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 26g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 209mg
Find it online: https://bakeitwell.com/shrimp-tetrazzini
Recipe Tips
- If the sauce feels too thick while cooking, a splash of additional cream or milk can help thin it out and create a smoother consistency.
- For a spicier kick, increasing the paprika can beautifully elevate the flavor without overpowering the dish with heat.
- When baking, a layer of foil halfway through prevents the topping from burning while ensuring the dish heats through evenly.
- If your pasta comes out undercooked after baking, it’s helpful to cook it just slightly less than al dente before mixing it into the sauce.
- For a smoother cooking experience, prepping all your ingredients ahead of time can really streamline the process and save you stress.
Serving Suggestions
Accompany the creamy seafood tetrazzini bake with a green salad and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing complement. Garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that enhances the meal experience.
This dish works well at family dinners or holiday gatherings. It can also shine at potlucks and weeknight meals, satisfying various tastes.
Consider a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to serve alongside the bake. A drizzle of fresh lemon juice can add brightness right before serving.
Recipe variations
- You can use turkey instead of seafood, creating a hearty turkey tetrazzini dish with a similar creamy texture.
- Add a dash of heat with 1 finely diced jalapeño or 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy spice.
- Either mix in peas or substitute half the shrimp with 1 pound of cooked chicken for a different protein option.
- When preparing for more servings, double the amounts of pasta and cream, using 2 lbs of spaghetti and 4 cups of heavy cream.
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How to Store?
To keep your shrimp tetrazzini fresh, follow these storage tips:
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-friendly bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
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