Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you love shrimp scampi, you’re in for a treat because this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect twist on the classic! Picture it: tender shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all melded together in one cheesy, bubbly, golden-brown bake. It’s comfort food at its finest, and trust me, you’re going to want to make this again and again.

What makes this recipe so special is how it combines the rich, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a baked pasta dish. It’s like taking two of your favorite dishes and marrying them into one epic meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home, a special occasion, or a dish for a gathering, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will definitely impress!

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Comforting and Flavorful

This pasta bake has all the rich, garlicky flavors you love about shrimp scampi but with the added indulgence of a cheesy, baked topping. It’s comforting, filling, and flavorful in all the right ways.

Quick and Easy

It may seem like a fancy dish, but it’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few steps and common ingredients, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant, but you made it yourself!

Perfect for Sharing

It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it the ideal dish to share with family or friends. Everyone will love diving into this cheesy, savory bake. Plus, it’s easy to serve in large portions!

Customizable

If you want to make it your own, you can adjust the seasoning or swap out the shrimp for chicken or another protein. The recipe is flexible and forgiving, so get creative!

Ingredients

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is loaded with flavor and comes together with ingredients that are easy to find and put together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta Bake:

• Shrimp: Large, juicy shrimp are perfect for this dish. Be sure to peel and devein them before cooking.
• Pasta: I recommend using linguine, spaghetti, or penne. The pasta should be cooked al dente before mixing it into the bake.
• Butter: The star of the shrimp scampi sauce. You’ll want to use real butter for that rich flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the signature shrimp scampi flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds that essential citrus zing to brighten up the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the sauce and topping.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella makes for a deliciously gooey, melty topping when baked.
• Heavy Cream: For that creamy richness that makes the bake so comforting.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this dreamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, making sure it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.

Cook the Shrimp

1. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Make the Scampi Sauce

1. Garlic and Butter: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
2. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
3. Add the Cheese: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
2. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture. The more, the better, right?

Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the baked pasta for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 500-600 calories (depending on portion sizes and ingredients)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is filling and flavorful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some light sides to balance out the richness:

• Green Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette or Caesar dressing provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with garlic bread to scoop up any extra sauce!
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed asparagus, broccoli, or green beans would add a lovely crunch and a healthy element to the meal.
• Wine Pairing: Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors of the shrimp and lemon.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp works too, just be sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
• Make it Spicy: For a little kick, add some chopped fresh chili peppers or more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or even peas for added texture and flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?

A1: Yes, you can use cooked shrimp! Just add them in at the end when mixing the pasta with the sauce, since they don’t need to be cooked again.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!

Q3: Can I freeze the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

A3: You can freeze it! Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer (you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time).

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A4: Of course! You can swap the mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella if you prefer.

Q5: What pasta works best for this recipe?

A5: Linguine, spaghetti, or penne are all great choices. You want a pasta that can hold up to the creamy sauce and shrimp.

Q6: Can I add other seafood to this dish?

A6: Absolutely! Feel free to add scallops, lobster, or even crab for a seafood feast.

Q7: Can I make this without heavy cream?

A7: Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free option like coconut milk for a lighter version.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?

A8: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy.

Q9: Can I make this dish spicier?

A9: Yes! Just add more red pepper flakes or some fresh chili peppers to the sauce to amp up the heat.

Q10: Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

A10: Yes, you can use chicken or even sausage for a different take on this pasta bake. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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