SHRIMP PASTA CASSEROLE

SHRIMP PASTA CASSEROLE
Makes 10-12 servings
6 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 cup grated baby Swiss cheese
1 1/2 pounds blanched shrimp (blanch in hot water 1 minute) OR use3/4 pound blanched shrimp and 3/4 pound crab meat
Salt and red pepper to taste
16 ounces penne pasta
1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella

Melt butter; add onion and garlic and saute until soft. Stir in flour, combining well. Slowly add half-and-half, stirring until smooth. Discard crushed garlic. Add cheese and seafood. Season to taste and cook until cheese is melted.

Cook pasta until tender; drain thoroughly. Butter a 2-quart casserole and add half the pasta. Cover with half the cheese sauce. Repeat one more time, ending with cheese sauce. Cover. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes, until bubbly. Uncover and top with mozzarella. Bake about 25 to 30 minutes, until cheese is melted and top is very lightly browned.

Serve with a mixed green salad.