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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 116 reviews
  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious, cheesy, and garlicky casserole that combines al dente pasta with succulent shrimp sautéed in a creamy garlic butter sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Shrimp

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.
  3. Cook Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  4. Add Shrimp and Season: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp.
  6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl and pour in the shrimp and cream sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the sauce and shrimp.
  7. Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the combined pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a gooey, cheesy crust.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta bake. Serve warm and enjoy your rich and comforting Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
  • Serving Ideas: Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal and soak up extra sauce.
  • Substitutions: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
  • Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook shrimp as they can become rubbery; they cook quickly once added to the pan.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: shrimp scampi pasta bake, baked pasta, cheesy shrimp bake, garlic butter pasta, easy dinner recipes

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Find it online: https://marinamontclair.com/shrimp-scampi-pasta-bake-recipe/