Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz short pasta (such as penne, rotini, or ziti); 4 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a luscious, garlicky sauce that is simply irresistible. This baked version of the classic shrimp scampi brings all the flavors you love into one easy-to-make, cheesy, and creamy dish. The rich buttery sauce, paired with fresh lemon, garlic, and parmesan, coats the shrimp and pasta perfectly, making every bite a satisfying treat.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a cozy family meal, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to please everyone at the table. The best part? It’s a one-dish wonder that comes together quickly and is baked to golden perfection, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavor-Packed

The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the sweetness of the shrimp and the comforting texture of the pasta.

2. Perfectly Creamy

With butter, garlic, and parmesan, this recipe delivers a creamy, indulgent sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp in every bite, making it impossible to resist.

3. Easy One-Dish Meal

This pasta bake is made in one dish, which makes both preparation and cleanup easier. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

4. Quick and Simple

Despite its indulgent flavor, this dish comes together quickly. The shrimp cook fast, and the pasta bake only takes about 20-25 minutes to finish in the oven.

5. Customizable

This recipe is easily adaptable! You can add vegetables, switch up the pasta, or adjust the seasoning to fit your preferences, making it a versatile dish for all tastes.

Ingredients

Shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined)
Pasta (short varieties like penne, rotini, or ziti)
Butter
Garlic (fresh, minced)
Lemon (fresh lemon juice)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Parsley (fresh, chopped)

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to the bake for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.
Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce that’s even more indulgent.
Herb Variation: Try adding other herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano for a more aromatic, herbal flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free while still enjoying all the delicious flavors.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease or butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and garlic butter. Stir in half of the grated parmesan cheese, mixing well to coat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta bake. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Do Not Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them while sautéing, and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Pasta Choice: Use short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti, as they hold the sauce well and make the dish easy to serve.
Add Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, you can add extra mozzarella or gouda on top for an even cheesier, gooey finish.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish ahead of time, assembling it and refrigerating it until ready to bake. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a filling meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat individual portions, microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, covered with foil, to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this dish. Just be sure to thaw and drain them completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Bake it right before serving for a hot, fresh meal.

3. Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of short pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle, depending on your preference.

4. Can I add vegetables to the pasta bake?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Is there a substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.

6. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply sauté the garlic and then add the shrimp to warm them through before combining with the pasta and baking.

7. How do I know when the bake is done?

The bake is done when the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also insert a knife or fork into the center to check that it’s hot all the way through.

8. Can I add a creamy sauce to this recipe?

Yes, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to make the sauce even creamier and richer.

9. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe and gives the best flavor. Avoid garlic powder as it doesn’t provide the same aromatic richness.

10. Can I add more cheese to the topping?

Definitely! Add more parmesan or even mozzarella for a cheesier finish. Just keep in mind that it will add richness.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting, indulgent dish that combines the best flavors of shrimp scampi with the convenience of a pasta bake. It’s creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious, satisfying taste of this classic pasta bake!