A delicious twist on the classic shrimp scampi, this creamy and garlicky Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is loaded with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a golden, cheesy topping. This dish is perfect for easy weeknight dinners or for impressing guests at special occasions. With its irresistible flavors and comforting textures, it will quickly become a family favorite. Try this simple and flavorful shrimp pasta recipe today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious bake on even the busiest days.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and rich cream creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the dish.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the familiar flavors of shrimp scampi combined with cheesy pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings; it suits any occasion effortlessly.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish makes great leftovers that can be reheated without losing flavor or texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing shrimp and making the creamy sauce all in one pan, saving you time on cleanup.
- Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the cheesy topping.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot allows you to cook enough pasta evenly without overcrowding.
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 in the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Flavors
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Toss Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Assemble Dish
Transfer all of that delicious pasta into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Arrange your cooked shrimp on top of the pasta.
Step 9: Add Cheese
Sprinkle both grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella over your layered pasta and shrimp.
Step 10: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until you see that delightful cheese melting and bubbling.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Remove your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Serving Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is all about enhancing its creamy, garlicky goodness with delightful accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the pasta bake.
- Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s flavors.
Offer Delicious Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread sticks are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the pasta bake.
- Focaccia: Soft, herbed focaccia adds a wonderful texture and pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
Add a Zesty Drink
- White Wine Spritzer: A light white wine spritzer balances the dish’s richness and enhances its flavors.
- Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade provides a citrusy brightness that complements the shrimp scampi perfectly.
How to Perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
To make your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality pasta make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; this ensures they remain tender and juicy when baked.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a lower-fat option.
- Experiment with Cheese: Mix different cheeses like fontina or gouda for added depth of flavor alongside mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or cherry tomatoes into the mix for extra nutrition and color.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor just before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Pairing side dishes with your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable is easy to prepare and adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Roasted Asparagus: Perfectly roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant side that complements seafood well.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic brings additional greens to your meal while keeping it light.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the rich flavors of the pasta bake.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses gives variety and is great for sharing as an appetizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Rushing the Pasta Cooking: Cooking pasta too quickly can lead to mushy noodles. Always cook it al dente according to the package instructions for the best texture.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from heat.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoning can make your dish bland. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper gradually to enhance flavors.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh parsley or other herbs for garnish.
- Not Using Enough Cheese: A lack of cheese can make your bake less creamy and rich. Generously sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella for a gooey topping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or broth in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta is best for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Linguine or spaghetti works best due to their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce well.
Can I customize this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I make this dish lighter?
To lighten up the recipe, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing cheese quantities.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, a creamy and cheesy twist on the classic shrimp scampi dish. This comforting casserole is packed with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at gatherings, it combines the rich tastes of garlic, lemon, and cream for an irresistible meal that even picky eaters will love. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this easy shrimp pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- 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.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp; cook until pink (3-4 minutes). Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour wine or broth into the skillet; simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with shrimp and sprinkle cheeses on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
