A tantalizing aroma wafts through your kitchen as you prepare the ultimate comfort food: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Imagine succulent shrimp nestled in creamy garlic sauce, enveloped by perfectly cooked pasta and topped with a golden crust. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings smiles and satisfaction.
Remember that rainy day when you craved something warm and cozy? That’s when I first whipped up this delightful dish. It was the perfect antidote to the gloomy weather, transforming my kitchen into a haven of flavor and warmth. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors of garlic and butter create a mouthwatering experience for everyone at the table
- Visually stunning with its golden top layer, this dish will catch everyone’s eye
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a main course or a side dish at gatherings
I still remember how my friends couldn’t get enough of this dish at our last movie night; they practically begged for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp for the best texture; fresh is ideal but frozen works well too.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce beautifully; choose your favorite.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses amazing flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic treasure.
- Butter: A generous amount adds richness; use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious texture; this is what makes it truly decadent.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds salty goodness; feel free to sprinkle extra on top before baking.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley brightens up the dish; it’s also great for garnish.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended if you enjoy a little heat in your dishes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant before adding shrimp. Cook until they’re pink and opaque.
Create the Sauce: Lower heat and pour in heavy cream while stirring gently. Mix in lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together cooked pasta with sautéed shrimp and sauce until well combined. Pour everything into your greased baking dish.
Bake it Up: Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Enjoy every bite as you savor the delicious combination of flavors in your homemade Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake!
You Must Know
- The Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a casserole
- The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table, reminiscing about family dinners
- It’s simple yet impressive, making any weeknight feel special
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and shrimp in butter, then boil pasta while preparing the sauce for optimal timing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or toss in some spinach for a healthy twist that adds color and nutrients.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for better flavor; frozen shrimp can work but may lack that fresh taste
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente before mixing with the sauce for perfect texture
- Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
The first time I made Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, my friends raved about it so much that I felt like a culinary rock star, soaking up their compliments like a sponge.
FAQ
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or even vegetables like zucchini.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it when ready to serve.
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp turns pink and opaque when fully cooked; avoid overcooking for best texture.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy delight featuring succulent shrimp and tender pasta, perfectly baked to a golden finish. This comforting dish will satisfy any crowd.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp (peeled)
- Short pasta (like penne)
- Fresh garlic
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, melt half the butter, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to create the sauce.
- Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture and transfer to the greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining Parmesan and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
