There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic and butter sizzling away in your kitchen on a cozy evening. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is comfort food at its finest, bringing a touch of elegance with that creamy, cheesy goodness we all crave. It’s the talk of the dinner table latelyeveryone loves a dish that feels special yet satisfying.
This dish blends succulent shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a buttery garlic sauce that wraps it all together. With minimal prep time, you toss everything in a baking dish and let the oven do its magic. It’s like your grandma’s comforting scampi, but ready in less than an hourand freezer-friendly for those busy weeknights!
I stumbled on this recipe while planning a family gathering last summer. The first bite brought back memories of my parents’ dinner parties, where laughter and good food filled the air. The secret? A splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens it all up. After years of refining my recipes, this has quickly become a family favorite!
Yesica Andrews
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Irresistibly Delicious Recipe
This shrimp scampi pasta bake is an easy cheesy shrimp scampi casserole loaded with tender linguine, flavorful shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan. A perfect shrimp scampi pasta bake recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions that combines the zest of lemon with garlicky butter for an irresistible one dish shrimp scampi spaghetti bake experience.
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
Cook the linguine or spaghetti following the package directions until just tender, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and then add minced garlic with red pepper flakes. Cook briefly until the aroma is released, about 1 minute.
Add shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink and opaque, around 3 to 4 minutes, then remove them from the skillet and keep aside.
Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the pan, scraping up any browned bits, and let it bubble gently for 2 minutes.
Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream; warm gently until the sauce begins to simmer.
Return the pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat it completely with the creamy sauce; season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Spread the sauced pasta evenly in a baking dish, and lay the cooked shrimp on top.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over everything to create a golden crust.
Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese has melted and the surface is bubbly and lightly browned.
Take the dish out of the oven, scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top, and serve while still warm for the best flavor.
Notes
For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Finding a family-friendly dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor can be a challenge. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake offers just that, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings:
Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests.
Comforting Flavors: The classic shrimp scampi flavor shines through, wrapped in a creamy sauce that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish in advance for stress-free entertaining or busy nights.
Family Favorite: Packed with cheese and shrimp, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that will bring everyone to the table.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference with this easy cheesy shrimp scampi casserole. Here’s what you need:
Pasta: 12 oz of linguine or spaghetti is the perfect base for this dish.
Shrimp: 1 lb of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for that sweet flavor and juicy texture.
Aromatics: Butter and minced garlic create a rich, flavorful foundation.
Liquids: White wine or chicken broth adds depth to the sauce; heavy cream brings a luscious creaminess.
Cheese: Parmesan and mozzarella work together for a melty, bubbly topping.
Tools: You will need a large skillet, a baking dish, and a pot for cooking the pasta. These staples are likely already in your kitchen!
Steps to Make Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Let’s dive into the process of creating this comforting dish! Follow these simple steps for a warm, satisfying meal:
Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Pasta: Prepare the linguine or spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute.
Cook Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Set them aside.
Prepare Sauce: Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Combine Flavors: Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Toss Pasta: Combine the cooked pasta in the skillet, ensuring it’s coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble Dish: Spread the pasta mixture in a baking dish and layer the shrimp on top.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella.
Bake: Place in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tweaks and Troubleshooting
Every chef has their own touch; here are some tweaks and troubleshooting tips to ensure success with your garlic butter shrimp pasta oven bake:
For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or basil, or even a bit more red pepper flakes for heat.
Make it Lighter: Substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate it the night before. Bake when ready to serve.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results!
Serving Suggestions
This lemon shrimp scampi linguine bake is delightful on its own, but here are some cozy serving ideas to elevate your meal:
Pair with a Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for that extra comfort factor.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with the shrimp and cream.
Quick Summary Table
Step
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook pasta until al dente, drain.
3
Sauté garlic, add shrimp until cooked.
4
Add wine/broth, simmer, then add cream.
5
Toss pasta, combine with shrimp and sauce.
6
Transfer to baking dish, add cheese, and bake.
Expert Says
When preparing a shrimp scampi pasta bake, consider using large, fresh shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. This dish benefits from the quick cooking method of sautéing, which helps to retain the natural sweetness and delicate brininess of the shrimp, enhancing the overall taste profile of the bake.
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The Quest for My Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Perfecting this shrimp scampi pasta bake was an adventure filled with lessons and laughter. I’ll never forget the time I mistakenly added a cup of salt instead of sugarlet’s just say my family was cautious about a second helping! After several attempts, I finally nailed a balance of flavor that never fails to impress.
FAQs ( Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake )
How long does it take to cook Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
This dish typically takes about 25-30 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 350°F. If using raw shrimp, be sure to adjust the time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best for this dish, as they hold the sauce well and ensure every bite is flavorful. You can also use gluten-free pasta if desired.
What can I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables or a side of sautéed greens for added nutrition.
How can I add more flavor to the recipe?
Add a splash of white wine or extra garlic for enhanced flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil also elevate the taste and add freshness. Don’t skimp on seasoning; adjust according to your preference!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this shrimp scampi pasta bake fills your home with delightful aromas, all while being a breeze to prepare. In under an hour, you’ll wow your family with a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting.
Looking to mix it up? Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for some warmth, or swap in your favorite pasta. And don’t forget, leftovers reheat beautifully! A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to drizzle a little extra lemon juice when servingthis adds a pop of freshness!
I’d love to hear about your own cozy family gatheringsdid you grow up with a favorite pasta dish? If you enjoy this recipe, share it with your loved ones or save it for those busy weeknights. Cooking is meant to be shared, after all!
