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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy, Garlicky Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy, Garlicky Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting and cheesy baked dish featuring tender shrimp, a creamy garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Infused with lemon juice, white wine, and Italian herbs, it offers a delicious twist on the classic shrimp scampi, enhanced with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine work best)
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • ½ cup (125ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Creamy Bake Ingredients

  • 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ cup (125ml) chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Assemble & Bake: Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the sauce, tossing everything to coat. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier.
  • Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light cream for a lighter version.
  • Try different proteins such as chicken, salmon, scallops, or vegetarian options like mushrooms or zucchini.
  • Change up the cheese by adding Gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes covered with foil or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
  • Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
  • A light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi pasta bake, baked shrimp pasta, cheesy shrimp pasta, garlic butter shrimp, creamy shrimp bake, Italian pasta bake, easy weeknight dinner, seafood pasta bake

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/shrimp-scampi-pasta-bake-cheesy-garlicky-recipe/