Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready for a pasta bake that’s so ridiculously delicious, it’ll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds)? This Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your answer. Forget everything you think you know about weeknight dinners – this recipe is quick, easy, and unbelievably flavorful. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a creamy, garlicky sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine, and topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan. Your taste buds are going to be singing!

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of flavors. The bright citrus notes from the lemon juice perfectly complement the rich creaminess of the sauce and the savory garlic. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while the fresh parsley provides a vibrant burst of freshness. The texture is just as delightful – tender shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a wonderfully gooey cheese topping. It’s a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you completely satisfied.

This recipe isn’t just about amazing taste; it’s about the feeling it evokes. It’s the kind of dish that screams comfort food – warm, inviting, and perfect for a cozy night in. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still want something delicious and impressive on the table.

So, ditch the takeout menus and get ready to experience a pasta bake that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

What You’ll Need

This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a truly unforgettable dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb Large Shrimp: The star of the show! Look for fresh, juicy shrimp for the best flavor.
4 Cloves Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here – it provides that signature scampi flavor.
1 Lemon: Provides a bright, zesty counterpoint to the richness of the cream sauce. You’ll use both the juice and the zest.
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Adds a vibrant pop of freshness and color. Fresh parsley is definitely preferred.
1/2 cup White Wine or Chicken Broth: This adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Chicken broth offers a slightly milder flavor if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
12 oz Linguine or Spaghetti: Your choice of pasta – both work beautifully in this recipe.
1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Salt and Pepper: To season the shrimp and sauce perfectly.
4 tbsp Butter: Creates a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.
1 cup Heavy Cream: The secret ingredient for that unbelievably creamy sauce.
1 cup Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a stretchy, cheesy goodness.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the shrimp and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your ultimate Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures your shrimp will cook evenly and beautifully.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining – this helps create a creamier sauce.
Sauté the Garlic: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Don’t let it brown; you want it to be fragrant, not burnt.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds so much flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the red pepper flakes and parsley.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Bake It!: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Similarly, don’t overcook your pasta; aim for perfectly al dente. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly improve the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to properly pat the shrimp dry before cooking, as this will help them brown nicely and prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. And for the best flavor, use fresh parsley instead of dried. Finally, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your own taste. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or more lemon juice for extra brightness.

Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few variations to try:

Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper, for a spicier kick. Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a more intense lemon-garlic flavor. Vegetarian Version: Replace the shrimp with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free linguine or spaghetti.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combination. Add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. You can even add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and bubbly. While freezing isn’t ideal for this creamy pasta bake, if you must, freeze in individual portions for easier reheating. Remember that the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Otherwise, they will take longer to cook and may become rubbery.

Q: Can I substitute the white wine? A: Yes, chicken broth or even vegetable broth works well as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly milder.

Q: How long does the pasta bake keep in the refrigerator? A: It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: You can prepare the components separately and assemble just before baking. However, baking fresh is always recommended for best results.

Q: What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? A: Other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina would work well as substitutes.

The Final Word

This Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a true crowd-pleaser – a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and juicy shrimp create a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your culinary creations on social media. Happy cooking!

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

A creamy and flavorful pasta bake featuring shrimp, garlic, and lemon.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Servings 4 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish Or similar sized oven-safe dish
Large skillet

Ingredients

Seafood

1 lb Shrimp large, peeled and deveined

Produce

4 cloves Garlic minced
1 Lemon zested and juiced
2 tbsp Parsley fresh, chopped

Pantry

0.5 cup White wine or chicken broth
12 oz Linguine or spaghetti
0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes
1 Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy

4 tbsp Butter
1 cup Heavy cream
1 cup Mozzarella cheese shredded
0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque (about 3-5 minutes).
Stir in white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce slightly thickens (about 2 minutes).
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Pour pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes. You can also substitute other types of pasta for linguine or spaghetti.