Description
A rich and flavorful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combining tender linguine, succulent shrimp, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
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 prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the linguine or spaghetti following package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for around 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and keep aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour white wine or chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. Allow it to simmer and reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Combine Flavors: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Continue to cook on low heat until the sauce is gently simmering and slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat all noodles in the creamy scampi sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Assemble Dish: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top of the pasta.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses generously over the shrimp and pasta layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and becomes bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot and delicious.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic option, substitute white wine with chicken broth as indicated.
- Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to maintain tenderness and avoid overcooking.
- You can use either linguine or spaghetti according to your preference or availability.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor, but pre-grated is acceptable.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Shrimp Scampi, Pasta Bake, Baked Shrimp Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Italian-American Dish
