Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting, and unexpectedly simple to prepare, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender linguine swirled in a luscious garlic butter and lemon cream sauce, studded with succulent shrimp, then topped with loads of bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish beautifully combines the bright, zesty notes of classic scampi with the warmth and heartiness of a baked pasta casserole, making it an irresistible meal to share with your loved ones any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of rich, tangy, and savory flavors you want in a Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe. From fresh shrimp to creamy cheeses and aromatic garlic, every component works harmoniously to deliver a dish that’s as vibrant as it is comforting.

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta for a traditional scampi texture that holds the sauce well.
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites of seafood goodness.
• 4 tbsp butter: Creates a rich, silky base and perfectly complements the garlic and shrimp flavors.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for that aromatic punch that makes scampi unforgettable.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle warm heat to balance the creaminess.
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth: Adds depth and helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor complexity.
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested): Provides fresh citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxurious, velvety texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that enhances every bite.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a golden, gooey topping that’s simply irresistible.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and bring out all the other flavors.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note as a finishing touch.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a large baking dish to ensure your pasta bake won’t stick and will come out beautifully after baking. This simple step sets the foundation for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your linguine or spaghetti in salted water until just al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. This is important because it will continue cooking in the oven later, and you don’t want mushy pasta. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spice

Melt your butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, letting them cook gently until fragrant. This step fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma that’s the hallmark of a fantastic scampi.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Toss your shrimp into the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque throughout, which usually takes just a few minutes. Be careful not to overcook — well-cooked shrimp will be tender and juicy. Remove them from the pan and set aside for the final assembly.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let this simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavors, building the backbone of your sauce.

Step 6: Add Lemon and Cream

Stir in your freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, followed by the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens to a creamy consistency that will cling perfectly to your pasta and shrimp.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, making sure every strand is coated with that rich, garlicky, lemony goodness. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing the overall balance.

Step 8: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer your creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the cooked shrimp over the top, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella – the cheeses that will melt and bubble into a glorious golden crust.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely, is bubbling, and forming that mouthwatering golden top layer.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a dash of color and freshness. Serve your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe hot and watch everyone dive right in!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic and adds a nice herbal vibrancy that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you want to get fancy, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side brighten the dish even more.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add a satisfying crunch and balance. Garlic bread is also a perfect companion to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pasta in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, especially if you’re entertaining. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs mixed with herbs on top before baking for an extra layer of texture. For a family-style meal, serve straight in the baking dish to bring everyone together around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain both flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save extras for longer, this pasta bake freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container, keeping it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15 minutes, to preserve the creamy texture and melt the cheese perfectly again. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring between, to avoid drying out the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great as long as you thaw it fully and pat it dry before cooking. This ensures the shrimp cooks evenly and doesn’t release too much water into your sauce.

What pasta works best for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe?

Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices because their long, slender shapes hold onto the sauce well, but feel free to use fettuccine or even penne for a different texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and swap the cheeses for vegan versions to maintain the creamy, cheesy effect.

How spicy is this dish?

It has just a mild kick from the red pepper flakes that you can easily adjust according to your preference, making it suitable for most palates.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. It reheats well and makes for a delicious, satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just portion it out and store properly for easy meals on busy days.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s bound to impress whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its creamy, garlicky sauce paired with tender shrimp and gooey cheese offers pure comfort in every bite. I encourage you to try it out and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen — a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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