Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz penne pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 20, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This shrimp scampi pasta bake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavors from garlic and lemon create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love
Its beautiful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece at any meal
Versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Sharing this dish with my family brought smiles all around, especially when my brother declared it “the best thing since sliced bread”, high praise from someone who usually only eats cereal!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Medium Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp. Look for firm and slightly pink shrimp for the best flavor.
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fusilli; their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a robust flavor. Skip the jarred stuff if you can!
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels in your dish.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the rich flavors in this recipe. alfredo calzones recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own cheese for maximum flavor; it melts better than pre-packaged options.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; don’t skip it!
Cream: Heavy cream creates that luscious texture we all crave in a pasta bake.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab your baking dish and give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray. This step prevents any tragic sticking incidents later.

Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. garlic butter tacos Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Pasta and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in cooked pasta along with lemon juice and heavy cream into the skillet with shrimp. Mix well until everything is beautifully combined. If you’re feeling fancy, add some zest from that lemon too!

Mix in Cheese and Seasoning: Remove from heat and fold in grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper. This cheesy goodness will create an irresistible creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into your greased baking dish. Top generously with more Parmesan cheese and dot with remaining butter pieces for that golden crust we all love! Bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for that final touch of color. Let it cool slightly before serving, if you can resist!

Now you’ve got yourself a mouthwatering shrimp scampi pasta bake that’s not only easy to make but also delightful to eat! Enjoy every creamy bite with your loved ones; trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds! loaded baked potato recipe.

You Must Know

This shrimp scampi pasta bake is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds
The aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
It’s an easy recipe that brings comfort to any dinner table while being adaptable for various tastes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing shrimp in garlic and butter until they turn pink. Meanwhile, cook pasta al dente, then mix everything with sauce and cheese. Bake until golden brown for a perfect finish. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses, like gouda or mozzarella, to customize flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To avoid rubbery shrimp, don’t overcook them during sautéing; they’ll finish cooking in the oven
Adding fresh herbs like parsley enhances flavor without overpowering
Letting the dish sit before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully

The first time I made this dish for friends, they couldn’t believe how easy it was! Their smiles and compliments made my heart swell with joy.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp scampi pasta bake?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even results.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Any short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well and bakes perfectly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to enhance the heat level easily.

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