Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting heartiness of a pasta bake, look no further than this incredible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. This recipe captures all the garlicky, buttery goodness and bubbly, cheesy magic in a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Each bite offers tender shrimp nestled in creamy lemon-kissed pasta, baked to golden perfection – trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is in its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients that each play a distinct role—from juicy shrimp to tangy lemon and the melty cheeses—this recipe balances flavors and textures perfectly without overwhelming your pantry.

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up that delicious sauce.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, providing tender, succulent bites.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the silky garlic sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with classic shrimp scampi aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a touch for a subtle spicy kick.
• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth): Balances the richness with acidity and lifts the sauce.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested: Brightens everything with fresh, vibrant citrus notes.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture that clings to the pasta.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and a nutty sharpness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, providing gooey goodness on top.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herby finish and color contrast.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Warming the oven first ensures it reaches the perfect temperature so your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake cooks evenly and the cheese melts to golden perfection.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. Draining the pasta just right is key for it to hold up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about a minute until delightfully fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the garlic, giving your sauce that signature shrimp scampi aroma.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Remove them to a plate — we’ll add them back later so they don’t overcook during baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the lovely browned bits from the bottom. Let this simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring it gently to a simmer to thicken slightly, creating the luscious base for our pasta.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet and toss to coat every strand in that creamy, garlicky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step ensures each bite bursts with the classic Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake flavor.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a baking dish (a 9×13-inch works perfectly). Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. This layering guarantees cheesy, bubbly goodness on every forkful.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts, bubbles, and just starts to turn golden. This final baking melds the flavors and textures beautifully, making it irresistible.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top to add a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes. Serve your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake right away for the best experience.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also elevate the dish with a few lemon wedges for those who want an extra squeeze of citrus. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds eye-catching color and a little heat for spice lovers.

Side Dishes

Complement this vibrant pasta bake with garlic bread that’s perfect for scooping up every bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini add crunch and color, while a crisp Caesar or arugula salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual portions in small ramekins straight from the oven for that wow factor. You can also layer it with roasted cherry tomatoes or spinach inside for extra color and nutrients. A drizzle of flavored olive oil before serving offers an elegant finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick reheats during a busy week.

Freezing

If you want to keep the goodness even longer, freeze the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a well-sealed container for up to two months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, the oven is your best friend. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through, which helps retain that wonderful baked texture. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works too, though the pasta won’t stay quite as crisp.

FAQs

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake up to a day before baking. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. When ready, bake it as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled.

What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken or vegetable broth make excellent substitutes that still provide savory depth. A little extra lemon juice can also brighten the sauce nicely in place of wine.

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly here! Just thaw them beforehand by running under cold water for a few minutes. Ensure they’re dry before cooking to avoid watering down the sauce.

How Can I Make This Healthier?

Try swapping regular pasta for whole wheat to boost fiber. You can also reduce the heaviness by substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes amps up the nutrition without compromising flavor.

Can I Use Different Cheeses?

For a unique twist on Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Asiago, or Fontina. Each brings its own flavor profile, adding an exciting dimension to this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a perfect union of zesty, garlicky shrimp scampi flavors and cheesy, comforting pasta bake indulgence. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet fancy enough for guests, making it truly one of those dishes everyone will rave about. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy every savory, melty bite!

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