Name: Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (cooked according to package directions); 4 ounces butter; 1 pint heavy cream; 8 ounces Parmesan cheese (grated); 8 ounces shrimp (cooked, peeled, and deveined); 1 unit Roma tomato (cut into small pieces); 2 teaspoons parsley (chopped); 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons Parmesan cheese (for topping); 1 tablespoon butter (melted)

If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and a cheesy crust, look no further than Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp. This delightful recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish for guests. With a medley of ingredients that come together beautifully, this dish brings the essence of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this indulgent meal!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp recipe stands out for its creamy texture and crispy topping, creating a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of butter and heavy cream envelops the shrimp in a velvety sauce, while the Parmesan cheese adds a delightful nuttiness. This dish is simple yet elegant, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The Ingredient Lineup

To recreate this Olive Garden favorite, gather the following ingredients:

8 ounces pasta, cooked according to package directions
4 ounces butter
1 pint heavy cream
8 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
8 ounces shrimp, cooked, peeled, and deveined
1 Roma tomato, cut into small pieces
2 teaspoons parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons Parmesan cheese, for topping
1 tablespoon butter, melted

These ingredients come together to create a rich, savory dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Large pot – for cooking the pasta.
Skillet – to prepare the creamy sauce.
Baking dish – to bake the shrimp and hold all the delicious ingredients together.
Mixing bowl – for combining the breadcrumbs and melted butter.
Whisk – to blend the heavy cream and cheese smoothly.

Having these tools ready will ensure a seamless cooking experience!

Directions: Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This will serve as the perfect base for your baked shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 ounces of butter. Once melted, add the pint of heavy cream and stir gently. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Shrimp

Gradually whisk in the 8 ounces of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. Next, fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring that each piece is well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy shrimp mixture. Gently stir in the Roma tomato pieces and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, 2 teaspoons of Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are well-coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Spread the shrimp and pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Make It Your Way

This recipe is versatile! Here are a few ways to customize your Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp:

Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
Substitute shrimp for another protein, such as chicken or scallops.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor.
Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Problems & Prevention

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few potential issues and how to prevent them:

Overcooked Shrimp: Ensure that the shrimp are just heated through in the creamy sauce, as overcooking can make them tough.
Too Thick Sauce: If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or additional cream to loosen it up.
Burnt Breadcrumbs: Keep an eye on the baking dish during the last few minutes to prevent the breadcrumb topping from burning.

By following these tips, you’ll have a flawless dish every time!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you’re wondering how to store leftovers or keep this dish fresh, here are some tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.
For best results, do not freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

With these storage tips, you can enjoy your Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp for days!

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly pat them dry before adding them to the dish.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake it just before serving for a warm, delicious meal.

What is a good dipping sauce for this dish?

A Shrimp Dipping Sauce would complement the flavors perfectly if you’re looking to add an extra layer of flavor.

If you loved this Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp, try these other delicious recipes:

Each of these recipes offers simplicity and flavor, perfect for any night of the week!

Bring It Home

Creating the Olive Garden Baked Parmesan Shrimp in your own kitchen is a delightful way to enjoy restaurant-quality food without leaving home. With its creamy sauce, delectable shrimp, and crispy topping, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is a surefire winner. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the delicious aromas fill your home as you whip up this fantastic dish!