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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 17 reviews

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic butter and white wine sauce. Perfectly baked with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it combines the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting texture of a pasta casserole, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine work best)
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • ½ cup (125ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ cup (125ml) chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions to keep it slightly firm. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in dry white wine (or chicken broth) and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and optional nutmeg into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the creamy sauce, tossing everything together to coat well. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden in spots.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce the richness slightly.
  • If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
  • For a wine-free version, use additional chicken broth instead of white wine.
  • Make sure to not overcook the pasta in boiling water since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can enhance the brightness of flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shrimp Scampi, Pasta Bake, Baked Pasta, Creamy Shrimp Pasta, Garlic Butter Shrimp, Italian Pasta Bake

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