Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready for a pasta bake that’s going to transport you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria? This Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the answer to your weeknight dinner dreams (and weekend ones too!). Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes; this one’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Imagine: tender shrimp swimming in a luscious, garlicky, buttery sauce, perfectly coating every strand of your favorite pasta, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. The taste? Pure heaven.

Creamy, savory, with a bright hint of lemon and a delightful whisper of garlic. The texture? Oh, the texture! Tender pasta, succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce – it’s a symphony of delightful contrasts in your mouth. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to faces and warms hearts. It’s the perfect dish for a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or even a well-deserved treat for yourself after a long day. So, ditch the takeout menus and get ready to impress yourself (and maybe a few others) with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple recipe.

What You’ll Need

This recipe is surprisingly straightforward when it comes to ingredients. Let’s get you prepped with this handy shopping list:

• 1 pound linguine or fettuccine pasta: Your choice of pasta shape is key to a great bake! Linguine or fettuccine are excellent at capturing the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture. Frozen is fine, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt level.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that authentic scampi flavor.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret weapon for that unbelievably creamy sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp kick.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce and adds a touch of acidity.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course!
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that delicious melted topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes together faster than you think.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the cheese melts beautifully and the pasta bakes through nicely.
2. Cook the pasta: Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining; this helps to thin out the sauce later if needed.
3. Sauté the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, cooking until it reduces slightly – about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine everything: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Bake it!: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
7. Serve and enjoy!: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is absolutely perfect:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic has a much more vibrant flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and shrimp, and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
• Don’t be afraid to add more cheese: If you love cheese (and who doesn’t?), feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan.
• Serve immediately: This pasta bake is best served fresh from the oven, while the cheese is still bubbly and melted.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own! Here are some fun variations:

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi Bake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Lemon-Herb Shrimp Scampi Bake: Add some chopped fresh oregano, thyme, or basil along with the parsley.
• Vegetarian Scampi Bake: Replace the shrimp with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of wine.
• Gluten-Free Scampi Bake: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Creamy Tomato Scampi Bake: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a richer flavor.

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. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

• Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Q: What kind of white wine is best? A: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with chicken broth.
• Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the pasta bake just before serving to ensure the cheese is bubbly and the pasta is perfectly cooked.
• Q: How long does it last in the fridge? A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the sauce.

The Final Word

This Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make, boasting a creamy, flavorful sauce and tender shrimp. From a quick weeknight meal to a special occasion dinner, this recipe will become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to savor every delicious bite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out! And if you love it, please rate the recipe – I’d love to hear your feedback! Happy cooking!

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