Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

Savor the rich flavors of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, an easy-to-make dish combining tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This comforting baked pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
5. Step 5: Pour white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Step 8: Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange cooked shrimp on top and sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
9. Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Step 10: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version without losing flavor.
• Add a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes before baking for extra color and nutrition.
• If you prefer milder heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• For a crispier topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess liquid.

What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Linguine or spaghetti are ideal as they hold the sauce well, but you can also use other long or short pasta shapes according to your preference.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious twist on the classic scampi, combining tender linguine pasta, succulent sautéed shrimp, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, all baked together with melted cheeses for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

Shrimp and Aromatics

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Sauce

• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 cup heavy cream

Cheeses

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it is ready by the time the pasta mixture is prepared.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes before adding the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Stir well and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
6. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and toss well to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top of the pasta, then sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with chicken broth.
• Make sure to not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Use fresh garlic for the best aromatic flavor.
• You can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.
• If preferred, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream, but the sauce may be less rich.

Keywords: Shrimp Scampi, pasta bake, creamy shrimp pasta, baked linguine, Italian pasta dish, seafood pasta