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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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The scent of garlic and butter sizzling in a skillet always reminds me of home, and the shrimp scampi pasta bake takes those nostalgic flavors to a whole new level. Imagine tender shrimp cooked to perfection, coated in a creamy lemon-garlic sauce, and baked with layers of gooey, golden cheese. This dish marries the elegance of shrimp scampi with the warmth of a classic pasta bake, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing dinner party guests.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a white baking dish, featuring golden shrimp, creamy garlic butter sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, garnished with fresh parsley.

I first created this shrimp scampi pasta bake on a chilly winter evening when I wanted something comforting yet refined. As the cheese bubbled in the oven and the aroma of garlic filled the air, it became clear that this dish was special. My family’s reaction confirmed it—there were no leftovers, only requests for more. For another comforting dinner idea, check out this mini meatloaf recipe that pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Each bite felt like a warm hug, combining the zest of lemon, the richness of cream, and the delicate sweetness of shrimp. Now, it’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want to bring a little joy and indulgence to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Whether it’s a special dinner party or a quick weeknight meal, this dish has something for everyone. For a unique pasta twist, you might also love this chicken marsala pasta recipe that combines rich flavors with creamy goodness.

  • Packed with flavor: A garlic butter sauce, zesty lemon, and perfectly seasoned shrimp combine for an unforgettable taste.
  • Cheesy goodness: Layers of Parmesan and mozzarella create a gooey, melty topping that elevates the dish.
  • Easy to prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, it’s beginner-friendly yet elegant.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap out the pasta, or adjust the spice level to make it your own.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Fancy enough for a dinner party, yet cozy enough for a family meal.

First-by-First Guide to Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious baked pasta dish at home. Each stage is simple and straightforward, ensuring success even for beginners.

First: Preparation

Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools to make the process seamless.

  • 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 fresh parsley, chopped
  • Tools:
    • Large skillet
    • Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
    • Whisk
    • Wooden spoon
    • Cheese grater

Close-up of a cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with linguine, oven-baked shrimp, and a crispy, golden cheese topping, served in a white casserole dish.

Second: Cooking the Pasta

  1. Bring water to a boil: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the pasta: Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Third: Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Melt the butter: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
  2. Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté until pink and opaque (3-4 minutes), then remove and set aside.
  4. Deglaze the skillet: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the cream and lemon: Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.

Fourth: Combining the Ingredients

  1. Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Layer the dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.
  3. Add cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the shrimp and pasta.

Fifth: Baking

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Broil for a golden crust: For an extra-crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown. If you enjoy skillet meals, this garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes skillet is another delicious option.
  4. Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

  • Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it to al dente ensures it holds up well during baking.
  • Opt for freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains additives that can affect melting.
  • Adjust the spice level: Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick or omit them for a milder version.
  • Customize with veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes are excellent additions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Even simple recipes can go awry. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

  1. Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
  2. Skipping the broil: Broiling adds a crispy, golden layer of cheese that’s worth the extra step.
  3. Using low-fat cream: Heavy cream provides the richness that makes the sauce creamy and indulgent.
  4. Forgetting to season: Proper seasoning ensures the flavors shine through.

FAQs About Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the sauce (if added) with a gluten-free alternative.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

Q: What cheese pairs best with shrimp scampi pasta bake?

A: Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, but Gruyere or Fontina can add a unique flavor twist.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Absolutely. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta with tender shrimp, zesty lemon-garlic cream sauce, and layers of bubbling cheese, garnished with fresh herbs for a comforting meal.

Variations and Add-Ons for Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This recipe is endlessly versatile. Try these variations to suit your taste:

  • Protein swaps: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even tofu.
  • Low-carb option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
  • Cheese alternatives: Use Gouda, Pecorino Romano, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
  • Spices: Add Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a bold twist.

What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Pair this rich, creamy dish with lighter sides for a well-rounded meal:

  • Green salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the bake.
  • Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the garlicky butter sauce.
  • Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make excellent sides.

Conclusion

The shrimp scampi pasta bake is more than a meal—it’s an experience. With its creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, and cheesy topping, it’s a dish that combines elegance and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ready to bring a taste of coastal comfort to your table? Try this shrimp scampi pasta bake today, and let its irresistible flavors transport you to culinary bliss. Don’t forget to share your creation and let us know how you made it your own!

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Bring together the elegance of shrimp scampi and the cozy comfort of a pasta bake with this irresistible dish. Juicy shrimp, a creamy lemon-garlic sauce, and layers of gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.

  • Author: Julia Child
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

  • Pasta and Shrimp:
    • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
    • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Garlic Butter Sauce:
    • 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
  • Cheese and Seasonings:
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Garnish:
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  • Add linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • SautĂ© shrimp until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  • Deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Let the sauce thicken slightly.

Combine Ingredients:

  • Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and arrange shrimp on top.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the dish.

Bake:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden crust.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread. For a spicier twist, add more red pepper flakes. Try swapping the shrimp for scallops or adding spinach for extra greens. For another comforting meal idea, check out this mini meatloaf recipe or this chicken marsala pasta recipe.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: ~520
  • Sugar: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~830mg
  • Fat: ~32g
  • Saturated Fat: ~19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~13g
  • Trans Fat: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~35g
  • Fiber: ~2g
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Cholesterol: ~220mg

Keywords: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, Garlic Butter Shrimp Bake, Creamy Shrimp Casserole, Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner Recipe

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