Shrimp and Spaghetti with Bechamel Sauce (35 Minutes)

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Here is an elegant and creamy pasta dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with a smooth and rich bechamel sauce.

This dish elevates the classic spaghetti to a more luxurious level, making it perfect for a special dinner or when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent.

The bechamel sauce, with its velvety texture, perfectly coats the spaghetti and shrimp, while the fresh parsley adds a hint of color and freshness to the dish.

Seafood and pasta lovers will simply adore this easy recipe!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined (shells and tails off)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bechamel Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Spaghetti (10 minutes): Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  2. Prepare Shrimp (5 minutes): Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make Bechamel Sauce (10 minutes): In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  4. Combine Ingredients (5 minutes): Add the cooked spaghetti and shrimp to the bechamel sauce. Toss gently to coat the spaghetti and shrimp evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
  5. Garnish and Serve (2 minutes): Transfer the spaghetti and shrimp to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

To ensure the best results, be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. The bechamel sauce should be creamy and smooth without being too thick.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and add the fresh parsley right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

This dish is a wonderful combination of comfort and elegance, perfect for a cozy yet sophisticated meal. Serve with a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the bechamel sauce and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Pair this with...

Fresh Spinach Salad

Start by washing and drying fresh spinach leaves, which will serve as the vibrant base of your salad. Hull and slice some ripe strawberries, their juicy sweetness a perfect contrast to the spinach. Crumble in some creamy feta cheese, which adds a delightful salty tang. For that crunch, toss in a handful of your favorite nuts—be it toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans. When it comes to dressing, a simple balsamic vinaigrette works wonders. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Sautéed Green Beans

Begin by snapping the ends off your fresh green beans, giving them a quick rinse. In a pan, heat up a bit of olive oil or butter—whichever your heart desires. Once it's shimmering and hot, toss in those green beans, letting them sizzle and dance in the pan. A sprinkle of salt and a crack of black pepper elevate their natural taste. Sauté until they're bright green and just tender, with some lovely golden-brown spots. For an extra layer of flavor, toss in a minced garlic clove or two in the last couple of minutes.

Homemade Boule Loaf

Grab 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 packet (or 2 ¼ tsp) of active dry yeast, about 1 ½ cups warm water, and 1 ½ tsp salt. Dissolve that yeast in warm water and let it sit until it's foamy, around 5 minutes. Now, mix in the flour and salt, get your hands dirty, and knead until smooth. Let the dough rise in a cozy spot until it's doubled in size, about an hour. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape your dough into a ball and score the top with an "X" or design of your choosing. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool and enjoy the magic of homemade bread.

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