This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting twist on the classic shrimp scampi, combining buttery garlic shrimp with a creamy, cheesy pasta bake. The dish features tender shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta, and baked to golden perfection with a layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or special occasions when you want something indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bake:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, then pour in white wine (or chicken broth). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta and mix well until everything is coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings together the best of shrimp scampi and baked pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering! 🍤🧀
For another variation, check out this recipe. You can also watch a great tutorial here.