Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of succulent shrimp, garlic, and creamy cheese, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that has roots in Italian-American cuisine. Traditionally, shrimp scampi is a quick sauté of shrimp in garlic and butter, but this baked version elevates it to a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

People adore Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake for its incredible taste and texture. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a golden, cheesy topping creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces pasta (linguine or spaghetti works best)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. 3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Preparing the Shrimp

4. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The aroma of melting butter is just heavenly! 5. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 6. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This is when they are perfectly cooked! 7. Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Sauce

8. In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. This will help deglaze the pan and pick up all those delicious bits left from the shrimp. 9. Allow the wine to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it reduces by half. The smell will be incredible! 10. After the wine has reduced, stir in the lemon juice and zest, followed by the heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. 11. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until it melts and combines smoothly. This will give the sauce a rich and creamy texture.

Combining Ingredients

12. Now, it’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 13. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor boost. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Assembling the Bake

14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter. 15. Pour the shrimp and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 16. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the pasta bake. This will give it a delightful texture once baked. 17. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Who doesn’t love a cheesy crust?

Baking the Dish

18. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. I like to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. 19. Once it’s done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help the dish set a little, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

20. Serve the shrimp scampi pasta bake warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor. 21. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of the same white wine you used in the recipe for a complete meal. Enjoy this delicious shrimp scampi pasta bake with family

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a winner for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this delightful bake with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to complement the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or tossing in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or even substitute the shrimp with chicken or a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian twist. I truly encourage you to give this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a try. I promise it will become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together!

Print