Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Optional Additions:
- Mushrooms or cherry tomatoes – for extra depth of flavor
- Spinach or kale – for a nutrient boost
- Crushed red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pasta bake will cook evenly, resulting in an appealing golden top.
- Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once the water boils, add your linguine or spaghetti, cooking it until it’s al dente according to the package instructions. After it’s cooked, carefully drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about one minute until fragrant. Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, letting it simmer for approximately two minutes. This helps to pick up all the flavorful bits left behind from the shrimp. Now stir in the lemon juice and zest, followed by the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, tossing gently to ensure every strand is coated. Season this mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Next, arrange the sautéed shrimp on top, garnishing it beautifully for the ultimate presentation.
- Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and shrimp. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating an irresistible golden crust on top.
- Once the cheese is perfectly melted, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy this delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with your loved ones!
Notes
For the best results, opt for fresh or frozen wild-caught shrimp, ensuring great flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g