Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Now

Imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta dish bubbling away in the oven, its vibrant colors and savory aromas wafting through your home. This shrimp scampi pasta bake is like a warm hug from your favorite Italian restaurant, packed with succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a sprinkle of herbs that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Now picture this: it’s a rainy Saturday evening, and you’re snuggled up on the couch with your loved ones. What better way to lift spirits than with a hearty meal that’s comforting yet feels fancy? This shrimp scampi pasta bake is perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at dinner parties. Trust me; after one bite, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. Their eyes lit up like Christmas lights when they took their first bite, and I felt like a culinary rock star.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for maximum flavor; frozen works well too—just thaw properly before cooking.

• Pasta: I recommend using linguine or spaghetti; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out that signature aromatic flavor; avoid jarred for best results.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control salt levels; it adds richness and depth to the sauce.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for optimal meltiness and flavor; it makes all the difference!

• Heavy Cream: This gives our bake that luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp here—it’s essential.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; it’s also great for garnish!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top.

Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente—remember it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in shrimp until they turn pink—about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in heavy cream slowly while scraping up any bits from the skillet. Add grated Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy goodness that clings to every strand of pasta.

Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp mixture, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently fold until every piece is coated in luscious sauce.

Bake to Perfection: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, sprinkle more cheese on top (because why not?), and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it! The delightful aroma of your shrimp scampi pasta bake should now fill your kitchen as you eagerly await that first mouthful. Just remember to let it cool slightly before digging in unless you enjoy burning your mouth—a classic rookie mistake! Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while sautéing the shrimp in garlic and butter. Combine everything in a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, to personalize your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious.

Creating this shrimp scampi pasta bake became a family tradition after my kids declared it their favorite dish ever! Their smiles make every bit of effort worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking and better texture.

What can I substitute if I’m allergic to shellfish?

Chicken or firm tofu works great as alternatives in this pasta bake.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Preparation typically takes about 20 minutes, followed by a 30-minute bake time.