Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Oven-Baked Perfection

There’s a culinary experience that transports you straight to the Italian coast, where the sun kisses the ocean, and flavors dance together in harmony. Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy Garlicky Oven Baked Perfection is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to dine in style. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta enveloping succulent shrimp while garlic wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug—pure bliss!

This dish has been my go-to for cozy family gatherings and spontaneous dinner parties alike. The aroma alone brings everyone running to the table, eager to dig in. Whether it’s a rainy day or a festive occasion, this pasta bake promises comfort and joy with every cheesy bite.

Sharing this dish with friends at my last gathering led to many enthusiastic compliments and requests for the recipe—nothing warms the heart like happy diners!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp; opt for medium-sized for the best texture.

• Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I love using penne for its perfect sauce-holding capabilities.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they add that unmistakable aromatic flavor we crave.

• Butter: Unsalted butter creates a rich base; feel free to go wild with it (just don’t tell your doctor).

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives maximum flavor; pre-grated cheese lacks that creamy goodness.

• Heavy Cream: For creaminess that hugs every noodle; low-fat versions just won’t cut it here.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top; don’t skip them unless you want a sad pasta bake.

• Parsley: Fresh parsley brings color and brightness; it’s like a green confetti party on your plate!

For the Sauce:

• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors; bottled lemon juice is just sad in comparison.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add these if you like some heat; they’ll spice things up without overwhelming the dish.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference but remember: seasoning is key!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

**Preheat and Prepare**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks when it bakes.

**Cook the Pasta**: Boil water in a large pot, then add salt generously before tossing in your pasta. Cook until al dente—you want it firm since it will bake later.

**Sauté the Shrimp**: In a skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes should do.

**Add Garlic and Seasonings**: Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper with those lovely shrimp until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!

**Make the Creamy Sauce**: Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream while stirring gently. Toss in lemon juice and half of your Parmesan cheese until everything melds into creamy perfection.

**Combine Everything**: Mix cooked pasta with shrimp sauce in a large bowl until well coated. Pour this heavenly mixture into your greased baking dish.

**Top It Off**: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top along with remaining Parmesan cheese—this will create an irresistible crust when baked.

**Bake Until Goldens**: Place in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. You might want to watch closely—it’s hard to resist peeking!

Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley on top for that extra pop of color—and because we all love a little green on our plates!

Enjoy your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy Garlicky Oven Baked Perfection while cozying up with loved ones or relishing some well-deserved alone time after a long day!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then sauté the shrimp with garlic before combining everything in a baking dish. This sequence ensures flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor. Personalize this dish to match your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain texture.

The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a bite! The laughter and joy around the table were priceless, reminding me why I love cooking.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for my Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy Garlicky Oven Baked Perfection?

Yes, just thaw them properly before cooking for the best results.

What can I substitute if I don’t have white wine?

Chicken broth or lemon juice can be great alternatives to enhance flavor without the alcohol.

How do I prevent my pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook pasta just until al dente; it will finish cooking while baking in the oven.

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, where creamy pasta meets succulent shrimp in a cheesy, garlicky dish that captures the essence of Italian coastal cuisine. This oven-baked wonder is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its delightful aroma and golden crust, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a beloved favorite at your dining table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb medium shrimp (fresh or thawed)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until fragrant.
5. Reduce heat, add heavy cream, lemon juice, and half of the Parmesan; stir until combined.
6. Mix cooked pasta with the shrimp sauce and transfer to the baking dish.
7. Top with remaining Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Garnish with parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 195mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or mix in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference; always taste as you go!