Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – There’s something undeniably comforting about a baked pasta dish, isn’t there? It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with its bubbling cheese, golden crust, and warm, savory aroma filling the kitchen. My Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is all of that and more—a marriage of the elegance of shrimp scampi and the cozy appeal of a baked pasta casserole.
The inspiration for this dish came on a chilly weeknight when I was craving the bright, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi but wanted something heartier, something you could really dig into. I thought, “Why not take everything we love about shrimp scampi—the garlic, the butter, the zesty lemon, and the juicy shrimp—and combine it with the comfort of a cheesy pasta bake?”
This recipe quickly became a household favorite. The tender shrimp are sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce, then tossed with al dente pasta and coated in a creamy lemon-infused sauce. Everything gets layered in a casserole dish with a sprinkling of Parmesan and mozzarella, then baked to golden perfection. The result? A dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, fancy yet fuss-free.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it ahead of time for a dinner party, where it’s sure to impress your guests, or throw it together on a busy weeknight for a family meal that feels like a special occasion. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty garlic bread, and you’ve got a dinner that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
The first bite is pure magic. The flavors of the shrimp and garlic meld beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the bright hint of lemon keeps everything light and refreshing. And let’s not forget the topping—a cheesy crust that adds the perfect amount of texture to every forkful.
So the next time you’re looking to elevate your pasta night or bring a little coastal elegance to your dinner table, give this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a try. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection—one that brings a little warmth, joy, and just the right amount of decadence to any meal.
After all, food is not just about nourishing the body; it’s about creating memories, sharing stories, and savoring the moments that matter most. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. ❤️
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Packed with Flavor: Juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and a hint of lemon come together with perfectly baked pasta for an irresistible combination.
- Cheesy Goodness: A golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese makes every bite extra comforting.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap out the pasta for a healthier twist—it’s versatile and always delicious!
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s fancy enough for dinner parties but cozy enough for a family meal.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Linguine or Spaghetti: Choose your favorite type of long pasta for a classic base.
- Large Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience and texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced for bold aromatic flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A subtle hint of spice to enhance the dish.
- White Wine or Chicken Broth: Deglazes the pan and builds a flavorful sauce.
- Lemon: Both juice and zest for a refreshing citrusy kick.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a salty, nutty flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded for a gooey, melty topping.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a bright, herby garnish.
How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Step 5: Pour the white wine into the skillet and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Arrange the shrimp on top.
Step 9: Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the pasta and shrimp.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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