The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter fills the kitchen as I prepare the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. It’s a symphony of flavors that promise to dance on your taste buds while the melted cheese blankets everything in comforting warmth. Trust me when I say this dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a baking dish.
Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, laughter echoing off the walls as you serve up heaping portions of this creamy, cheesy delight. Whether it’s a cozy date night or a lively gathering, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is bound to be the star of your meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines simple ingredients for a delightful flavor explosion
- Preparation is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The beautiful layers of color and texture will wow your guests at any gathering
- Enjoy versatile leftovers that taste just as good the next day!
I still chuckle thinking about the time my friend tried to make this recipe for her family reunion. Let’s just say it ended with my dad declaring himself a “Shrimp Scampi Connoisseur” after polishing off three helpings!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use any short pasta like penne or fusilli; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp; they provide that satisfying bite and flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives an aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness in your dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and creaminess; always go for fresh if possible!
- Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up flavors and adds a pop of color; don’t skip it!
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances flavors and balances richness beautifully.
- Cream: Heavy cream brings that velvety texture we all crave in a good pasta bake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing gets stuck during its glorious transformation.
Cook Your Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add generous salt before tossing in your pasta. Cook until al dente as you want it firm enough to hold up during baking.
Sauté Your Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds before adding shrimp. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Create Your Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice into the skillet with shrimp. Let it simmer gently while you mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with shrimp mixture. Add chopped parsley and mix well to ensure every noodle gets coated in that luscious sauce.
Bake It to Perfection: Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with more Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden bubbly goodness emerges from the oven.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating an unforgettable Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, get ready for compliments from everyone around your dining table!
You Must Know
- This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
- The aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, promising satisfaction
- Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can impress guests or make a cozy family dinner feel special
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta while sautéing shrimp in garlic and butter. Combine everything in a baking dish with cheese and bake until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add spinach for a nutritious twist. You can also try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, always use fresh shrimp for better flavor
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente before baking
- Don’t skimp on cheese; it’s the magic ingredient that binds everything together!
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it within minutes and asked for seconds! Their laughter and compliments warmed my heart more than the oven ever could.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Yes, just thaw them first to avoid excess water in the dish.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Penne or fusilli holds sauce well and offers great texture in every bite.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options like rice or chickpea pasta.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines succulent shrimp and tender pasta in a flavorful garlic sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- Short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- Large shrimp
- Fresh garlic
- Unsalted butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon juice
- Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
- Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, simmering gently while adding grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture and chopped parsley in a bowl.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish, top with more Parmesan if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
