Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter cream sauce, mixed with al dente pasta, and topped with a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it delivers rich, cheesy goodness perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Shrimp Scampi Sauce
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant without burning the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shrimp mixture, ensuring an even coating of the creamy sauce and shrimp.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining Parmesan and all shredded mozzarella cheese for a golden crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky shrimp pasta bake!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Serving Ideas: Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement and soak up the sauce.
- Substitutions: Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Use penne or fusilli pasta for the best texture and sauce adherence.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, cheesy shrimp pasta, baked shrimp pasta, garlic butter shrimp, creamy shrimp pasta
