Delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

The aroma of garlic mingling with buttery shrimp wafts through the air as you dive into a plate of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. With each bite, the flavors explode like a party in your mouth, making it impossible not to smile. This dish is more than just dinner; it’s an experience that transforms any average weeknight into a gourmet feast.

Picture this: You gather your loved ones around the table, each forkful of cheesy goodness met with delighted cheers. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake isn’t just delicious; it’s also a reminder of lazy weekends spent cooking together and laughter echoing around the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family night or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish promises satisfaction and joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This incredible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines ease with gourmet flair, making meal prep simple and enjoyable
  • Its rich flavors and creamy texture create a delightful experience on any table
  • The vibrant colors make it visually appealing while being versatile enough for any occasion

I still remember the look on my friend’s face when they took their first bite of this dish—it was pure bliss.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; fresh adds amazing flavor while frozen is convenient for quick meals.
  • Pasta: I prefer using linguine or fettuccine for the perfect texture; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that aromatic kick; avoid powdered varieties if possible.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness; plus, it gives a rich flavor to the scampi.
  • Heavy Cream: This provides a luscious creaminess that binds all ingredients together in harmony.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor; pre-grated cheese lacks that delightful richness.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances out the richness—don’t skip it!
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; its bright notes elevate every spoonful of this dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the baking dish ensures nothing sticks during baking.

Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot. Cook your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions before draining it.

Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds—and add shrimp until pink and cooked through.

Add Creamy Goodness: Pour heavy cream into your skillet along with lemon juice. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

Mix It All Together: Combine cooked pasta with the creamy shrimp mixture in a large bowl. Toss gently until everything is coated in that heavenly sauce.

Bake Until Perfectly Golden: Transfer everything back into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle more Parmesan on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will have everyone coming back for seconds—trust me! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish while creating unforgettable moments around your dinner table.

You Must Know

  • This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines rich flavors with a cheesy, bubbly finish
  • The aroma of garlic and shrimp will have everyone gathering around the table
  • Customize it with seasonal veggies for extra color and flavor, making it a dish that’s both comforting and impressive

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve delightful results, start by sautéing garlic in butter, then add shrimp and seasonings before mixing with cooked pasta.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a perfect bake, ensure your pasta is slightly undercooked before mixing
  • Fresh herbs can elevate flavors; try parsley or basil
  • A drizzle of lemon juice just before serving adds brightness and enhances the seafood taste

Sometimes I make this dish for friends, and they always rave about how comforting and delicious it is—proving that good food brings people together.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even seasoning.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce beautifully and are perfect.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic while cooking to bring some heat to your bake.

Print
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, flavorful dish that elevates weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences. This easy recipe features succulent shrimp and pasta baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce.


Ingredients

  • Shrimp (fresh or frozen)
  • Linguine or fettuccine pasta
  • Fresh garlic
  • Unsalted butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice; add grated Parmesan until melted and combined.
  5. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy shrimp mixture in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer to the greased baking dish, sprinkle with additional Parmesan, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: Substitute shrimp with scallops or add vegetables like spinach for added nutrition. For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes during cooking for a spicy kick.

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