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Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Creamy & Flavorful

Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Creamy & Flavorful


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings together the zesty flavors of classic shrimp scampi with the heartwarming comfort of a baked pasta dish. Tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic-lemon cream sauce are baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Shrimp

  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Garlic-Lemon Cream Sauce

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/3 cup chopped parsley

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions).

  3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes.

  2. Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

  3. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic-Lemon Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.

  4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.

  5. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  6. Mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce.

  3. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  4. Evenly distribute the shrimp over the pasta.

  5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

  2. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy top, if desired.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes.

  2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

  • Customization: Add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, Garlic-Lemon Pasta, Baked Shrimp Pasta