Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp scampi with the heartiness of a pasta bake. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, and it brings together concepts of comfort food and elegant dining. Imagine a warm, bubbling dish topped with melted cheese and succulent shrimp that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Why Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender pasta pairs beautifully with the juicy shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce. The zesty lemon adds brightness, while the bubbling mozzarella and parmesan create an irresistible golden crust. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it a go-to dish for both special occasions and weeknight meals. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover shrimp and pasta, minimizing food waste while maximizing flavor!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Creating this mouthwatering dish is straightforward and involves just a few steps. The key is to ensure that your pasta is al dente before mixing it with the creamy sauce. The flavors develop beautifully as it bakes in the oven, yielding a meal that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 340g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 300g penne or rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 240ml heavy cream
- 60g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 120g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and half the butter. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Let simmer to reduce slightly.
- Add half of the parmesan to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Transfer pasta to a greased baking dish. Nestle shrimp on top in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (estimated for 6 servings):
- Calories: 550
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 680mg
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it with a simple green salad and a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the shrimp and creamy pasta, making the entire experience feel special.
How to Store Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it in a pinch, but for best results, the oven is recommended to keep the top crispy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Choosing Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Pasta Choice: While penne and rigatoni are great choices, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
- Cheese Variations: If you want a bolder flavor, try adding some grated asiago or gouda alongside the mozzarella.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some fresh spinach or cooked vegetables.
Delicious Variations
- Seafood Medley: Add scallops or crab for a more decadent seafood experience.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a twist on the traditional flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta works great in this recipe. It adds more fiber and nutrients while keeping the same delightful taste. -
What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or a combination of milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. -
How can I tell when the shrimp is cooked?
Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. If you’re using larger shrimp, they might take a minute longer.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Its combination of creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and cheesy goodness makes it a comforting meal for any occasion. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a delightful dish that’s bound to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience—happy cooking!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful dish combining shrimp scampi and hearty pasta in a creamy, cheesy bake.
Ingredients
- 340g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 300g penne or rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 240ml heavy cream
- 60g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 120g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and half the butter. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Let simmer to reduce slightly.
- Add half of the parmesan to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Transfer pasta to a greased baking dish. Nestle shrimp on top in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best reheating results, use oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: shrimp scampi, pasta bake, seafood, comfort food, Italian cuisine
