Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you’ve ever wanted to combine the irresistible flavors of classic shrimp scampi with the cozy comfort of a bubbly pasta casserole, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is about to become your new favorite. Each forkful combines the punchy brightness of lemon, succulent shrimp, a whisper of garlic, and melty cheese in every bite. What really sets this dish apart is when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly—the simple act that brings all those beautiful layers together for a golden finish in the oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is a testament to how just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients create magic on the plate. Every element shines: plump shrimp lend sweetness, garlic brings depth, and the blend of cheeses tops everything with gooey delight. Here’s what you’ll gather for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite; both soak up the sauce perfectly for that classic scampi flavor.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show—choose fresh or thawed raw shrimp for best texture.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Creates richness and helps the flavors meld together.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Heavy on garlicky aroma for an authentic scampi taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A tiny kick of spice perks up the whole dish.
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth: White wine packs a punch of acidity, but chicken broth is a lovely non-alcoholic sub.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested: Both juice and zest deliver brightness and tang.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious silkiness to the sauce that just hugs every pasta strand.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty, and essential for that classic finish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Marvelously melty when baked, guaranteeing cheesy pulls.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season with confidence to highlight all the delicate flavors.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green for a pop of color and herby zing.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As it heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready means you move from stovetop to oven seamlessly, a vital step before you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly for its final bake.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then add your linguine or spaghetti. Cook until just al dente, following those package instructions closely. You want the pasta firm enough to stand up to the sauce without going mushy when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

As the pasta drains, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, savoring the fragrant aroma as they sizzle for about a minute. This is where the flavor base starts to build, making each bite even more irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Gently add your shrimp to the buttery, garlicky skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn a lovely pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook—the shrimp will finish baking later after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the white wine or chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those magical browned bits at the bottom. Let this simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify in flavor.

Step 6: Add Lemon and Cream

Now, add the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream into the skillet with the reduced wine. Stir everything together and let it gently bubble—this infusion creates a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and gloriously creamy.

Step 7: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked linguine or spaghetti back into the skillet, tossing well so every strand gets coated in the luscious creamy sauce. Taste, and season with salt and pepper as needed—this is your last chance before you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Assemble and Top

Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom so it forms a level bed. Take those beautiful cooked shrimp and arrange them on top for a perfect seafood fix. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan and mozzarella for that classic cheesy crust.

Step 9: Bake

Pop the assembled dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with tempting golden spots dotting the top. As soon as it’s out, shower with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness before serving.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

A final touch of chopped fresh parsley really wakes up this dish with a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. If you’re feeling extra fancy, grate a little more lemon zest over the top or add a pinch of extra red pepper flakes for both flair and zing just after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly and bake it to perfection.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta bake with a simple green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette, or offer crisp garlic bread to mop up extra sauce. These additions let the main dish shine while rounding out your meal—especially after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly and let it soak up every drop of its scrumptious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, portion out servings into individual ramekins before baking, giving everyone their own mini casserole. Or, make the whole dish ahead for potlucks; just transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly so it serves beautifully straight from the oven to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores wonderfully! Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or a lid. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making for an easy, tasty lunch.

Freezing

This pasta bake freezes surprisingly well. Let the dish cool, then cut into portions and seal in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you know you’ll want a quick homemade dinner, simply transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly from the freezer, then bake straight from frozen (adding a few extra minutes).

Reheating

To reheat, put portions in the microwave or place the whole covered baking dish in a 350°F oven until piping hot. If the pasta looks a bit dry, splash in a tablespoon of cream or broth before reheating for ultimate creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw your frozen shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking. They’ll still be plump and flavorful, perfect for when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly with your shrimp on top.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to cook with wine, chicken broth is an excellent alternative. It keeps the sauce flavorful and savory while maintaining a balanced taste.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free linguine or spaghetti. The sauce and toppings remain naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy once you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Can I assemble this in advance?

Definitely. Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover the dish, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, bake as directed—just add a couple of extra minutes to account for the cold dish.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

The key is to lightly cook the shrimp before assembling the bake. Since they’ll finish with the pasta after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly, pulling them off the heat while still slightly translucent helps avoid tough, rubbery shrimp.

Final Thoughts

Few things are more comforting than gathering around the table for a bubbling, golden Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. If you try just one new recipe this week, let it be the one where you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly—the flavor, aroma, and that cheesy, seafood-laden top are absolute magic. Invite your favorite people, and get ready for big smiles and empty plates.

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