Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines the bright flavors of shrimp scampi with the indulgence of a cheesy pasta bake. It’s a rich, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With garlicky shrimp, a buttery lemon sauce, and a crispy melted cheese topping, every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
- ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper, cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 30 seconds, then add red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir in broth and lemon juice and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Lower heat and whisk in butter cubes until smooth.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss cooked pasta in the scampi sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until combined.
5. Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with cooked shrimp and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier bake, stir ½ cup heavy cream into the sauce before baking.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 170mg