Description
This pasta bake is a true taste of the sea, with tender pasta enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce and studded with succulent seafood. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
7 oz / 200 g macaroni or other pasta of choice
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil , separated
1 lb / 500 g mixed raw seafood (Marinara seafood mix)
2 leeks , white and pale green part only finely sliced
2 garlic cloves , minced
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
2 1/2 cups milk
1 chicken bouillon cube (or 1 1/2 tsp chicken stock powder) OR 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
3/4 cup panko
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (high recommended)
Finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain, and place in a baking dish.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the seafood for 30 seconds per side, keeping the insides raw. Transfer to the baking dish.
Return the pan to the stove, add the remaining 1/2 tbsp of oil and turn to medium heat. Cook the leeks and garlic for 3 minutes, then add to the baking dish.
Mix the pasta, seafood, and leeks together.
In the skillet, melt the butter. Add flour and stir. Cook for 1 minute.
Add 1 cup of milk and whisk. Add the remaining milk and bouillon cube (or Parmesan cheese) and whisk. Cook for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour the sauce into the baking dish. Top with panko and Parmesan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Seafood cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery.
Season Generously: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Freshly Grated Cheese is Best: Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese will provide the best flavor and melting quality.
Let it Rest: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving to help the flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 30g