Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
If you’re searching for an irresistibly decadent, crowd-pleasing dinner that packs both comfort and elegance into every bite, then look no further than Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. This dish delivers all the garlicky, buttery goodness of classic scampi, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a bubbly, golden cheese crust that begs to be scooped straight from the baking dish. The combination of tender shrimp, melty cheeses, and a zesty kick of lemon makes each forkful positively unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting friends or just in the mood for a special weeknight treat, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake promises to become a new family favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is refreshingly short but mighty—each one plays an important role in the overall harmony of flavors, making every bite pop with color, texture, and pure delight.
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Either pasta will soak up the sauce beautifully and bake up tender yet toothsome.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Go for larger shrimp—they stay juicy and succulent even after baking.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Brings a rich, silky base for that classic scampi flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the garlic and delivers fruity depth.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): A must for true scampi—don’t skimp for maximum savoriness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a whisper of gentle heat you’ll love.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Gives brightness and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity keeps the whole dish light and lively.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh herbs pop with color and brightness in every layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty, and irresistible atop pasta and in the mix.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Makes a bubbly, stretchable crown when baked to golden perfection.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into delicious harmony.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by heating up a large pot of salted water and cooking your linguine or spaghetti until it’s just shy of al dente—remember, it’ll continue softening in the oven, so a little bite is perfect. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you turn your attention to the flavorful sauce. This step lays the foundation for the whole bake.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a roomy skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and drizzle in the olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the garlic and those red pepper flakes, giving everything a good stir. Let the aromas develop for about one to two minutes until your kitchen smells amazing, but be careful not to let the garlic brown—it should stay soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook about two to three minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. You want them juicy, so resist cooking them any longer—they’ll finish in the oven.
Step 4: Build the Scampi Sauce
Now, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer) along with the splash of lemon juice. Let this bubble away for another two minutes to blend the flavors and create a light, silky sauce. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of your skillet!
Step 5: Toss It All Together
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in your cooked pasta, chopped parsley, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything so the noodles and shrimp are evenly coated in the sauce—it’s all about making sure each forkful is equally delicious.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan generously over the top. Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbling and the top is turning golden. Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake should look gloriously inviting—resist the urge to dive in right away so it can set ever so slightly.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A finishing flourish of freshly chopped parsley is not just for aesthetics—it brings a fresh herbal lift to all that cheesy richness. If you love a citrusy zing, try a sprinkle of extra lemon zest over each serving. A crack of black pepper or even a touch more Parmesan gives the whole dish a final boost before you dig in.
Side Dishes
Serve this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a platter of roasted vegetables for the ultimate balance. And don’t forget a warm, crusty loaf of bread—the perfect tool for sopping up every last drop of garlicky sauce and melty cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style gatherings, bring the whole bubbling dish to the center of the table and let everyone scoop their own. Want to make it a little fancy for a dinner party? Serve individually plated portions, topped with a lemon wedge and a delicate sprig of parsley. You can even bake the pasta in small ramekins for a cute, personal touch—mini Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake cups are always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake should be cooled completely before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or for enjoying lunch the next day. The flavors meld together overnight, making those leftovers almost as good as freshly baked!
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead, assemble the pasta bake (but skip the baking step), then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed—add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold when it goes in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covering the dish to keep the pasta moist. For larger quantities, warm the whole bake in a 350°F oven, loosely covered with foil to prevent the top from drying out, until heated through. If you’d like, sprinkle on a bit more mozzarella before reheating to re-create that freshly baked gooey topping!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This way, they’ll stay nice and plump in the final dish instead of releasing extra liquid and making the sauce watery.
What’s the best wine to use in Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, a good-quality chicken broth is a perfect substitute and still delivers plenty of flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sliced cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or even asparagus tips all make lovely, colorful additions—just add them to the skillet with the shrimp so they cook lightly before baking.
How can I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of traditional linguine or spaghetti. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the swap couldn’t be easier. Be sure to check your chicken broth and cheese for any hidden gluten if you’re highly sensitive.
Is it possible to make this ahead for a dinner party?
Yes! Assemble the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake (up to the point of adding the cheese on top), then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chill. It’s perfect for entertaining since all you have to do is pop it in the oven while you mingle with guests.
Final Thoughts
From its glorious golden crust to that dreamy, sauce-soaked pasta beneath, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is truly a labor of love and comfort combined. Don’t hesitate to make this for your next family dinner or when you’re craving something special—it’s bound to bring big smiles and plenty of requests for seconds. Give it a try and let it become one of your own go-to favorites, too!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious and comforting Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, a flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, pasta, and cheeses baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Linguine or Spaghetti:
12 oz
Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined):
1 pound
Butter:
3 tablespoons
Olive Oil:
2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced):
4 cloves
Red Pepper Flakes:
1/4 teaspoon
Dry White Wine or Chicken Broth:
1/2 cup
Lemon Juice:
1 tablespoon
Fresh Parsley (chopped):
1/4 cup
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
1/2 cup
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese:
1 cup
Salt and Black Pepper:
to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp and cook until pink. Stir in wine or broth and lemon juice.
- Combine ingredients: Remove from heat and add pasta, parsley, and half the Parmesan. Transfer to baking dish.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of bake
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
