Amazing Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake for a Delicious Dinner

The aroma of shrimp scampi fills the kitchen, wafting through the air like a siren’s call, urging you to dive into this indulgent dish. Imagine creamy pasta intertwined with succulent shrimp, all baked to perfection with a golden crust that promises to deliver flavor at every bite. fresh pasta primavera This shrimp scampi pasta bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your palate and warms your soul.

this Recipe for Later

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a rainy evening, and I wanted something comforting yet impressive. The laughter around the dinner table, paired with the delightful “oohs” and “aahs” as they dug in, made me realize this recipe was destined for our family repertoire. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, this dish brings everyone together over a shared love of good food.

Sharing this dish during family gatherings always brings smiles and compliments from my loved ones.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration .

• Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for best results; frozen works too, just thaw them before cooking.
• Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I prefer penne for its perfect sauce-holding capabilities.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; using minced garlic from a jar just won’t cut it here. zesty roasted asparagus.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it’s essential for that rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream: For creaminess that envelops every bite; you can substitute half-and-half if desired.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best taste; pre-shredded just doesn’t melt the same way.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed brightens up the dish beautifully; bottled lemon juice can never compete.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness right when you need it.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked crust on top of your pasta bake.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare your sauce.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. perfect garlic butter shrimp Cook until fragrant and slightly golden before adding shrimp and cooking until they turn pink.

Create the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream along with lemon juice. creamy spinach artichoke dip Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy—don’t forget that pinch of red pepper flakes!

Add Pasta and Mix Well: Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together gently so each piece gets coated in that luscious sauce.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with extra parmesan cheese and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Now you’ve created an irresistible shrimp scampi pasta bake that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to join you at the table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and shrimp before boiling the pasta, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Then mix everything together before baking for a crispy top and creamy interior.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach and bell peppers. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that crispy topping.

Cooking this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake was a game changer during my last family reunion; everyone went back for seconds, claiming it was “the best thing ever.” For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and tricks recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

What type of pasta works best in this dish?

Any short pasta like penne or fusilli holds sauce well and complements the dish.

How do I know when my shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp should turn pink and opaque when cooked, usually taking about 3-5 minutes.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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• Author: Annika Weber
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Shrimp scampi pasta bake is a deliciously indulgent dish that perfectly combines creamy pasta, succulent shrimp, and a golden, cheesy crust. This comforting recipe is not only easy to prepare but also guarantees smiles around the dinner table. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and cook until pink.
4. Lower heat, stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan until creamy. Season with red pepper flakes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture in the skillet, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 180mg