A delicious twist on the classic shrimp scampi, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is creamy, garlicky, and loaded with juicy shrimp and tender pasta. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a gathering. With its golden, cheesy topping and rich flavors, this pasta bake will quickly become a family favorite. Try this simple and flavorful shrimp pasta recipe today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Flexible Ingredients: Use whatever pasta you have on hand or adjust the cheese to your liking.
- Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests.
- One Dish Wonder: Easy cleanup with everything baked in one dish.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, gather your kitchen tools for a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing ingredients evenly and developing rich flavors.
- Baking dish: Holds all the components together while baking to create a beautifully melted cheese topping.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following 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
- 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
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Prepare Sauce
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Flavors
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Toss Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Assemble Dish
Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.
Step 9: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp.
Step 10: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Enjoy this scrumptious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with your family or friends!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This creamy and savory Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the dish directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Individual Portions
- For a more polished presentation, portion the pasta bake into individual ramekins. This is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
With Fresh Bread
- Pair your meal with a side of crusty garlic bread. The bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
Salad on the Side
- A light green salad complements the rich flavors of the pasta bake. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Wine Pairing
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity will balance the richness of the dish beautifully.
Garnish Ideas
- Add a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or lemon zest on top before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.
How to Perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
To ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes out perfectly every time, follow these tips for best results.
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen options. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta just until al dente ensures it retains its structure during baking, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque in the skillet to prevent them from becoming tough during baking.
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for maximum flavor and meltiness in your dish.
Let It Rest: Allow the pasta bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps set up the dish, making it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Serving side dishes alongside your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs perfectly with pasta dishes; simply toast slices with butter and minced garlic.
Caesar Salad: This crisp salad adds crunch and refreshment; toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender make a healthy and vibrant addition to your meal.
Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil provide a fresh appetizer option.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool crunch of coleslaw balances out the richness of the pasta bake; prepare with cabbage, carrots, and creamy dressing.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add smoky flavor; zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant work wonderfully together.
Caprese Salad: Slice fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese layered with basil leaves; drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is not only delicious but also a fun hand-held side that everyone loves!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Pasta Cooking Step: Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial. If you overcook it before baking, it will turn mushy in the oven.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Failing to have all ingredients ready can slow you down. Measure and chop everything before you start cooking for a smoother process.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for the best results.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too many shrimp at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece is perfectly cooked.
- Neglecting the Cheese Topping: The cheesy layer adds flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on this step; use a good combination of cheeses for an irresistible topping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. This may take about 3-5 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines succulent shrimp with pasta in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese. It’s a comforting twist on classic shrimp scampi.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your dish.
How do I customize Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese.
What should I serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for an easy family dinner, this dish fits any occasion. Customize it as you like and enjoy every comforting bite!
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, a creamy and garlicky twist on the classic shrimp scampi dish. This comforting pasta bake features juicy shrimp, tender linguine, and a luscious cream sauce topped with melted cheese, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its rich flavors and golden, cheesy topping, it’s guaranteed to impress both family and friends. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this versatile dish can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Dive into this scrumptious recipe today and create a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- 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
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Pour in white wine (or broth), simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream.
- Combine pasta with the sauce; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with shrimp and cheeses.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
