Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delectable, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp scampi with the warmth and satisfaction of a baked pasta casserole. The creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned shrimp, and tender pasta come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both indulgent and filling. It’s a fantastic option for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a flavorful, easy-to-make meal.

This recipe takes the classic shrimp scampi, typically served as a quick sautéed dish, and transforms it into a baked casserole that’s equally delicious and a little more hearty. With layers of garlic, butter, lemon, and shrimp all enveloped in a cheesy pasta bake, it’s a twist on a traditional favorite that’s sure to become a go-to in your dinner repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The buttery garlic sauce that coats the shrimp and pasta is the essence of shrimp scampi. It’s rich, savory, and a little tangy from the lemon, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Hearty Comfort Food: The addition of pasta and cheese makes this dish feel like a comforting casserole, perfect for satisfying appetites. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the tender pasta gives you that cozy feeling.
• Easy to Make: While it looks impressive, this dish is simple to prepare. It’s made with just a few basic ingredients, and the process comes together quickly. Plus, it’s all baked in one dish, which means minimal cleanup.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or serving guests, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a guaranteed hit. The combination of shrimp, pasta, and cheese is universally loved, making it perfect for various occasions.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the recipe to your liking. You can add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, or change the type of cheese to suit your taste. You can even switch the shrimp for another seafood or protein if desired.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

• 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rotini, or farfalle)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning the pasta water
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

Although this dish doesn’t require anything too specialized, having the right equipment can make the process easier and more efficient:

1. Large Skillet: You’ll need a large skillet to sauté the shrimp and cook the garlic in butter. A non-stick or stainless steel skillet is ideal for even cooking and easy cleanup.
2. Large Pot: A large pot is needed to cook the pasta. Make sure it’s big enough to accommodate the pasta and allow it to cook evenly. A pasta pot with a strainer insert is particularly useful for draining the pasta.
3. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish or equivalent will be perfect for assembling the pasta bake. The size ensures the pasta bakes evenly and the sauce doesn’t spill over.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for ingredients like wine, cream, and cheese are key for achieving the right balance of flavors.
5. Whisk: A whisk is helpful for making sure the sauce comes together smoothly when you combine the butter, garlic, wine, cream, and seasonings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter. Set aside.

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but save about a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and the crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once the shrimp is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess liquid in the pan, you can drain it, but be sure to keep any flavorful bits left in the skillet.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the white wine and scrape up any bits left in the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to concentrate.

Next, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

4. Combine the Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Once everything is combined, transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish.

5. Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Follow with some extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly topping as it bakes.

6. Bake the Pasta

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. If you prefer a crispier top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake hot, with a side salad, garlic bread, or your favorite vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. As soon as the shrimp turns pink and opaque, it’s done.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give the dish the best flavor, but if frozen shrimp is all you have, be sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.
• Customize the Pasta: While this recipe calls for a short pasta like penne or rotini, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine also works well with the shrimp and creamy sauce.
• Add Vegetables: You can easily add some veggies to this dish, like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes, for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the garlic and shrimp or layer them into the bake before topping with cheese.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of brightness to this dish. You can also use fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Variations of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake: Skip the cream for a lighter version. Simply make the sauce with butter, garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of pasta water, and bake the pasta without the cream.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Add some Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika to the shrimp for an extra kick. This adds a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the shrimp and pasta beautifully.
• Vegetarian Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Swap the shrimp for another protein or simply load the casserole with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. This makes a delicious vegetarian version of the dish.
• Crab Scampi Pasta Bake: Replace the shrimp with lump crab meat for a luxurious seafood twist. This version is perfect for special occasions and adds a rich, delicate flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake makes great leftovers, and you can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the casserole for later, let it cool completely and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. The crunchy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the rich pasta bake.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Add some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make great side dishes for this meal, adding a healthy and flavorful component to your plate.

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Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and bursting with the flavors of shrimp scampi. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The creamy, garlicky sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese come together in this dish to create a satisfying and indulgent meal. Try it today and enjoy the mouthwatering goodness of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake!