Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

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There’s something special about a baked pasta dish—it brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of togetherness to the table. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes the beloved flavors of shrimp scampi and transforms them into a cheesy, baked delight that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of garlic, lemon, and tender shrimp, blended with pasta and melted cheese, creates a dish that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

What makes this dish a winner is its balance of flavors—savory, tangy, and rich, all in one bite. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. You can serve this with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for extra nutrition. For a heartier meal, pair it with warm, crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  5. Pour white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Transfer pasta mixture to a large baking dish and arrange shrimp on top.
  9. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the dish.
  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Options:

  • Swap shrimp for cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein choice.
  • Add steamed broccoli, roasted cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
  • For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking.

Nutritional and Dietary Considerations:

This dish is rich in protein from the shrimp and offers a good dose of calcium from the cheese. The lemon juice and garlic provide antioxidants, while the red pepper flakes add a bit of metabolism-boosting heat. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative. Those watching their sodium intake can opt for low-sodium broth and cheese.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring:

Food is best enjoyed when shared! If you try this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, let us know how it turned out. Did you make any creative changes? Snap a photo and share it with your friends or post about it online. We love hearing about your kitchen adventures—your comments and feedback help inspire new recipe ideas!