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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake - featured image

A creamy, garlicky pasta bake combining the elegance of shrimp scampi with the coziness of a casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces short pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, substitute with chicken broth)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  5. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
  7. Add the lemon juice, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  9. Layer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the shrimp and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  10. Repeat with the remaining pasta, shrimp, and mozzarella, finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.’, ‘Fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced jarred garlic.’, ‘For a crispier top, broil the pasta bake for 2-3 minutes after baking.’, ‘Let the bake sit for 5 minutes before serving to help the sauce settle.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, pasta bake, creamy dinner, seafood casserole, easy dinner recipe