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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy take on the classic shrimp scampi! Juicy shrimp are tossed with buttery garlic sauce, lemon juice, and pasta, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Rich & Flavorful – A creamy garlic butter sauce with a cheesy baked topping.
✔️ One-Dish Meal – Perfect for easy prep and cleanup.
✔️ Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz linguine, penne, or fettuccine
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp Scampi Sauce:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (al dente).
  3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add shrimp and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Scampi Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
  2. Reduce heat to low, add lemon juice, heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Stir until creamy and slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss cooked pasta in the garlic butter sauce.
  3. Add shrimp and mix everything together in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Topping & Bake

  1. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs over the pasta.
  2. Drizzle with melted butter for extra crispiness.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
  2. Optional: Serve with extra lemon wedges for a citrusy boost.

Serving Suggestions

🥗 Pair with a fresh side salad (Caesar or arugula).
🥖 Serve with garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
🍷 Pair with a crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay).

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  • Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese.

4. What can I substitute for wine?

Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy comfort meal that’s quick, easy, and full of bold flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s always a hit!

🍤🧄🧀 Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! 😊