Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful twist on the classic shrimp scampi, featuring tender linguine tossed in a creamy, garlicky sauce with juicy shrimp and a golden, cheesy baked topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan with rich mozzarella for a comforting and impressive meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the liquid simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine Flavors: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Assemble Dish: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a large baking dish and spread it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top of the pasta.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella over the entire dish, ensuring a good coverage for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp before baking to keep them tender.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- For added texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
