This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a decadent twist on the classic shrimp scampi, transforming it into a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The tender shrimp are sautéed in a garlic-infused buttery sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, and layered with a creamy lemon-wine sauce. Topped with a generous layer of melted Parmesan and mozzarella, this dish is an irresistible combination of comforting flavors and textures.
What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of bright citrus notes, the richness of cream, and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. With minimal prep time and just a short bake in the oven, this pasta bake is an excellent choice when you want something that looks and tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of butter, cream, and cheese creates an irresistibly luscious sauce.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Perfect for both weeknight meals and special gatherings.
• Versatile Flavors: Easily customizable with your favorite pasta or seafood.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp:
• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish:
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
1. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
1. Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
2. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Toss the Pasta
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Assemble the Dish
1. Transfer the saucy pasta to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the pasta.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Bake
1. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
2. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Tips
• Shrimp Selection: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Deglazing the Pan: Scraping up the browned bits when adding wine or broth enhances the sauce’s flavor.
• Customizable Cheese: Swap mozzarella for fontina or Gruyère for a different cheesy twist.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pasta and shrimp in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your table with ease. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite!
