Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake blends the elegance of classic shrimp scampi with the comfort of a baked pasta dish. Featuring tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, tossed in a lemony cream sauce, and topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella, this recipe is bursting with bright flavor and decadent texture. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a simple yet impressive meal for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the flavors of classic shrimp scampi with a cozy pasta bake

• Creamy, garlicky sauce with bright lemon zest

• Uses pantry staples for quick assembly

• A family favorite that feels like a gourmet meal

Ingredients Breakdown:

Pasta & Protein:

• Linguine or spaghetti (12 oz): Provides the perfect base for soaking up the creamy scampi sauce.

• Large shrimp (1 lb): The star of the dish—juicy, tender, and full of flavor when cooked just right.

Sauce & Seasoning:

• Butter (4 tbsp): Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.

• Garlic (4 cloves): Key to the classic scampi flavor; sautéed until just fragrant.

• Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp): A touch of heat to balance the creamy sauce.

• Lemon juice & zest (1 lemon): Brightens the dish and enhances the seafood.

• Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a luscious, silky sauce that coats the pasta.

Cheeses:

• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds savory, nutty flavor.

• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully on top for a gooey, golden finish.

Finishing Touches:

• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to taste.

• Fresh parsley (2 tbsp): Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor at the end.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – they’ll continue cooking slightly in the oven

• Substitute angel hair or fettuccine for pasta variety

• Use grated fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor

• Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of taste

Variations and Customizations

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce

• Low-carb option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash

• Extra veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, asparagus, or broccoli

• Cheese lovers: Add provolone or fontina for even more gooey goodness

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted green beans

• Finish with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or vanilla panna cotta

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until heated through

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Bake just before serving.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A luxurious twist on two classics! Succulent garlic-butter shrimp and al dente pasta swim in a lemony cream sauce, then bake under a golden blanket of Parmesan and mozzarella. Elegant enough for date night, easy enough for weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 lemon, juiced and zested

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.

• Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Stir in the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque.

• Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Build the Sauce

• Deglaze the skillet with white or broth, scraping up brown bits.

• Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

4. Combine with Pasta

• Toss cooked pasta in the sauce.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Bake

• Transfer pasta and sauce into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Arrange shrimp over the top.

• Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Use wild-caught shrimp for better texture and flavor.

• This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.

• For an even creamier sauce, add 2 oz of cream cheese before baking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

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