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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe


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4.1 from 49 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

A delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes, tossed in a creamy lemon-infused sauce, and baked with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a bubbly, golden finish. This comforting dish combines the bright flavors of scampi with the ease of a baked pasta casserole, perfect for a family dinner in just 35 minutes.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

Shrimp and Aromatics

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper (to taste)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish.
  2. Cook Pasta: Prepare the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and shrimp.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to infuse the butter with flavor.
  4. Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  5. Prepare Sauce: Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
  6. Combine Flavors: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, blending all the flavors into a creamy, tangy base.
  7. Toss Pasta: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly to coat every strand in the creamy lemon sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  8. Assemble Dish: Transfer the sauced pasta into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top of the pasta.
  9. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the shrimp and pasta to create a cheesy crust once baked.
  10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor in the sauce.
  • Substitute the white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Cook pasta just until al dente since it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Ensure shrimp are cooked until just opaque to avoid toughness after baking.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the top before baking for extra heat.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American