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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Are you ready for a dish that brings the warmth of your kitchen and the deliciousness of the sea right to your dinner table? Let me introduce you to Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—a creamy, flavorful delight that can turn any ordinary evening into an extraordinary feast! This recipe is not just a platter of pasta and shrimp; it's a delightful blend of buttery goodness, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic that fills your home with mouthwatering scents. Did you know that shrimp scampi has Italian roots, with "scampi" referring to the type of prawn used in the dish? While this baked version is a twist on the classic recipe, it makes cooking easier without sacrificing flavor. If you are looking for a dish that is family-friendly, simple to prepare, and beguilingly rich, your search ends here. Think of this pasta bake as the cozy cousin to traditional Shrimp Scampi, much like how a warm hug compares to a quick handshake! So, grab your apron and join me as we whip up this delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Key Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup white wine or 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 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  5. Prepare Sauce: Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Combine Flavors: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Assemble Dish: Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.
  9. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp.
  10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
  12. What to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake With
  13. To enhance your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake experience, consider serving it with a refreshing side salad tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread also pairs excellently, perfect for sopping up the delicious creamy sauce left on your plate.
  14. For those who love a bit of zing, a light sparkling wine can elevate your dining experience even more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a crispy side of roasted Brussels sprouts can add a nice roasted flavor that complements the dish beautifully!
  15. Top Tips for Perfecting Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
  16. Ingredient Substitutions: For those who prefer a lighter dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream! You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or even veggies like broccoli for a meatless version.
  17. Don’t Overcook The Shrimp: Always watch your shrimp closely—they can become rubbery if overcooked. The ideal cooking time should be just enough to turn them pink and opaque.
  18. Cheese Combos: Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella provides gooeyness, but adding a bit of feta or gorgonzola can introduce an extra flavor dimension.
  19. Storing and Reheating Tips
  20. If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake fresh, ensure it's cooled to room temperature before sealing.
  21. When reheating, use the oven at around 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats evenly without drying out. If you prefer microwaving, cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  22. Now you're all set to create a scrumptious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! Gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and enjoy the delightful process of cooking this delicious dish your family will adore!