Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp scampi pasta bake takes me back to a cozy dinner where I wanted something indulgent yet simple, so I combined my love for creamy pasta with buttery garlic shrimp and baked it all together for the ultimate comfort dish. As it baked, the aroma of garlic, lemon, and parmesan filled the kitchen, making the wait almost unbearable.

Since then, this has been one of my favorite recipes to serve when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp stay juicy, the pasta absorbs the garlicky sauce, and the golden breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch with every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Shrimp – Large, cleaned, and deveined for a perfect bite.
• Spaghetti – The pasta base that holds all the flavors together.
• Garlic – Essential for that classic scampi aroma and taste.
• Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
• Olive oil – Blends with the butter to create a flavorful base.
• Lemon – Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes.
• White wine – Adds depth and enhances the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a creamy texture.
• Breadcrumbs – Toast to a golden crunch on top.
• Fresh parsley – For a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Salt and pepper – Seasoning to balance and enhance the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To cook the pasta until al dente.
• Skillet – For sautéing shrimp and preparing the sauce.
• Baking dish – To assemble and bake the pasta.
• Mixing bowl – To combine pasta with sauce before baking.
• Grater – For fresh parmesan to elevate the dish.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by cooking the pasta until just al dente, then drain and set it aside.

Step 2:

In a skillet, I melt butter with olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Step 3:

I add shrimp to the skillet, cooking just until they turn pink, then remove them to avoid overcooking.

Step 4:

I deglaze the skillet with white wine and a squeeze of lemon, letting it reduce slightly, then stir in parmesan to create a creamy sauce.

Step 5:

I toss the pasta with the sauce and shrimp, then transfer everything to a baking dish.

Step 6:

I sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little parmesan on top and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

I like to use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping. You can substitute chicken broth for white wine if you prefer. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Ways to Serve

Serve this shrimp scampi pasta bake with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble it earlier, cover, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this shrimp scampi pasta bake because it’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Let me know how yours turns out!

Happy Cooking!

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