If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated dish, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the answer. With a rich garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and a gooey melted cheese topping, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. It’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This dish checks all the boxes for a perfect meal: creamy, cheesy, quick, and versatile. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of a buttery garlic sauce and melting cheese creates a rich, indulgent dish.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it the perfect option for busy evenings or last-minute meals.
- Versatile: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or cheeses to personalize the dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting a larger gathering, this dish will have everyone raving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat wonderfully, making this dish perfect for quick lunches during the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This pasta bake uses simple ingredients, yet it results in an incredibly luxurious meal. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes (halved, for sweetness)
- Baby spinach (for extra greens)
- Canned artichoke hearts (chopped, for a Mediterranean touch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to create a delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and any optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes or spinach to the skillet.
- Toss everything together in the sauce until it is evenly coated.
- Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, keeping the rest for the topping.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The garlic butter sauce serves as the rich, savory foundation, while the addition of lemon juice provides the perfect amount of brightness and acidity. The shrimp and pasta absorb all the delicious flavors, and the gooey cheese topping is the perfect finishing touch. It’s a balance of richness and freshness that makes this dish comforting yet sophisticated.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is already fantastic, you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations to consider:
Add Vegetables
- Stir in roasted red peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Make It Spicy
- For a kick, add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
Switch the Protein
- If shrimp isn’t your preference, try using scallops, chicken, or even sausage.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Extra Creamy
- Add a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese to the sauce for an ultra-creamy texture.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, so avoid using pre-minced garlic or garlic powder.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly and can turn rubbery if overcooked. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
- Save Leftovers: Leftover pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the unbaked casserole (without the cheese topping) for up to 3 months. Add the cheese before baking and increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to the sauce for a new flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake pairs well with many sides, making it versatile for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:
Family Dinner
Serve the pasta bake with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete, comforting meal.
Date Night
Pair the dish with a glass of chilled white wine and some crusty bread for an elegant evening.
Brunch Addition
Include it as a hearty dish on a brunch spread, alongside frittatas or quiches.
Holiday Side Dish
This bake makes a great side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
Meal Prep Idea
Portion leftovers into individual containers for a quick and easy lunch throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a dish that delivers rich flavors, creamy textures, and a beautiful golden crust that everyone will love. It’s perfect for a special occasion, an easy weeknight dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, this dish is sure to be a new favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work! Linguine, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are all great options. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente before baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and cook as directed. You can also freeze the unbaked dish for later use.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even sausage. Adjust the cooking times for different proteins accordingly.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped jalapeños. You can even experiment with other spicy peppers to customize the dish to your liking
Recap Recipe:
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: ~500 per serving
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
Categorize the Recipe:
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (optional)
- Method: Baked
- Keyword: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Skill Level: Easy
Under which category should this article be categorized?
Dinner
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