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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe


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

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

  1. 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.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  9. 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