Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe for Cozy Dinner Magic

Creamy, garlicky shrimp scampi pasta bake brings Mediterranean flavors right to your dinner table.

Aromatic herbs and succulent seafood mingle deliciously in this comforting casserole.

Tender pasta absorbs the rich, buttery sauce with each delectable bite.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this simple yet impressive dish.

Fresh shrimp and al dente noodles create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

Parmesan cheese adds a golden, crispy topping that makes this meal absolutely irresistible.

You’ll want to savor every single mouthwatering forkful of this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Classic Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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Ingredients For Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Shrimp: Tender seafood that provides the main protein for this delicious pasta dish.
• Pasta: Classic base that carries the rich sauce and absorbs flavors perfectly.

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a smooth cooking base.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and creamy sauce for the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty taste that enhances the overall flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a golden, bubbly topping.

• Garlic: Brings a pungent and aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and spicy kick.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides a blend of traditional Mediterranean herbs.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers a bright, fresh garnish that adds color and light herbal notes.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream.

Clear Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to toasty 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sear the Seafood

Heat a large skillet over medium flame and melt butter until it’s bubbling.

• Minced garlic
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh shrimp

Cook the shrimp until they transform into a beautiful pink color, which takes about 3 minutes. Splash in lemon juice, sprinkle Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.

Carefully remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently.

Whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and luxurious.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix cooked pasta with the velvety cream sauce, ensuring every noodle gets coated in deliciousness.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Gently fold the seared shrimp into the pasta mixture. Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish.

Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, melty finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to turn golden and start bubbling with excitement.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Tips For Flavorful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Choose fresh, deveined shrimp for best flavor and texture, ensuring they're not rubbery when cooked.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to match your heat preference, ranging from mild to extra spicy for personal taste.
• Cook pasta just until al dente before mixing with sauce, as it will continue cooking during baking to maintain perfect texture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for creamy, even melting without clumping or greasiness.
• Chop parsley right before garnishing to maximize its bright flavor and vibrant green color for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Flavorful Variations For Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Vegetarian Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace pasta and shrimp with spiralized zucchini noodles and plant-based shrimp alternative for a low-carb, vegetable-rich option.
• Gluten-Free Cauliflower Pasta Swap: Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Cajun Seafood Remix: Substitute Italian seasoning with Cajun spice blend, add andouille sausage chunks, and use white cheddar instead of mozzarella for a bold Louisiana-style transformation.
• Mediterranean Greek-Inspired Adaptation: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, add crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning for oregano to create a Greek-inspired Mediterranean flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions For Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Elevate Flavor Harmony: Crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon and garlic notes, cutting through the creamy richness of the pasta.
• Complement Texture Contrast: Serve with a crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and add a satisfying crunch against the soft pasta and tender shrimp.
• Brighten the Plate: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a peppery, fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy pasta dish.
• Balance the Meal: Add a side of roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of Parmesan to echo the cheesy elements while introducing a green vegetable for nutritional balance.

Proper Storage For Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum.
• Transfer cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain quality.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Add splash of cream or milk to prevent dryness.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

• Is it okay to substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For best results, stick with heavy cream.

• What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta are ideal. They hold the creamy sauce well and complement the shrimp perfectly.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent shrimp scampi pasta bake delivers Mediterranean coastal flavors with creamy garlic sauce and tender seafood. Crispy breadcrumb topping and fresh herbs elevate this comforting dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled & deveined

Pasta and Cheese:

• 12 ounces penne or spaghetti, cooked & drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Other Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium temperature, releasing its rich, nutty aroma.
3. Introduce minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing briefly to awaken their intense flavors.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking rapidly until they transform into a vibrant pink hue, approximately 3 minutes.
5. Enhance the seafood with a splash of zesty lemon juice, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Gently transfer the perfectly cooked shrimp to a separate plate, reserving for later.
7. Pour heavy cream into the same skillet, allowing it to simmer and create a luxurious base.
8. Integrate Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
9. Combine the prepared pasta with the velvety cream sauce, ensuring each strand is elegantly coated.
10. Reintroduce the shrimp, gently folding them into the creamy mixture.
11. Transfer the entire composition to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
12. Lavishly sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the top, creating a golden, tempting surface.
13. Bake for 15-20 minutes, watching for a bubbling, golden-brown cheese crust.
14. Finish with a generous scattering of freshly chopped parsley, adding a burst of color and freshness.
15. Serve immediately, allowing guests to indulge in this decadent seafood pasta creation.

Notes

• Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this indulgent pasta bake.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery, tough pieces that can ruin the dish’s delicate balance.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more authentic and richer sauce compared to pre-packaged options.
• Customize the heat level by adjusting red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance or dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 435 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 490 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 160 mg