Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

Savor the rich, buttery flavors of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—a delightful combination of tender shrimp, garlic, and cheesy goodness. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
4. Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shrimp mixture, mixing evenly. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
7. Step 7: Top with the remaining Parmesan and all of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Step 9: Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or lighter alternative.
• Swap shrimp for cooked chicken or tofu to change up the protein.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or toss in sautéed spinach or asparagus for extra veggies.
• Try a touch of nutmeg or lemon zest in the sauce for a seasonal flavor twist.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative works well.
• For best texture, cook pasta al dente so it absorbs the sauce during baking without becoming mushy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of cream or milk when reheating can help maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the dish.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, or try a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream if you prefer.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the bake in the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Could I make this without shrimp?

Yes! Substitute cooked chicken or roasted vegetables for a different protein or vegetarian option.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 113 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines tender, succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and perfectly cooked al dente pasta. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it bakes to a bubbly, golden crust that is both comforting and indulgent. A quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a delicious blend of protein, garlic aroma, and cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Protein

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce and Flavorings

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheeses

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking later in the bake.
3. Sauté Garlic and Spices: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, seasoning with salt and pepper while cooking for balanced flavor.
5. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese into the skillet with shrimp and garlic. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens to coat the shrimp evenly.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked pasta and the shrimp mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of sauce and seafood.
7. Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all the shredded mozzarella over the top evenly for a rich cheesy crust.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, garlicky comfort.

Notes

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For gluten-free dietary needs, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles).
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or dairy-free cream alternatives to reduce richness or accommodate lactose intolerance.
• To add extra vegetables, mix in sautéed spinach or asparagus before baking for color and nutrients.
• Spice lovers can add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• This dish is perfect for meal prep: assemble it ahead, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and add extra baking time if cooked directly from the fridge.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: shrimp pasta bake, shrimp scampi bake, cheesy pasta bake, garlic shrimp pasta, baked shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, easy dinner recipes, weeknight meals