why make this recipe
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp and garlic with the comforting texture of pasta. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that can impress family and friends alike. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a cozy dinner for a weeknight meal. The creamy sauce and melted cheese create a satisfying and delicious flavor that is hard to resist.
how to make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, and top with remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
how to serve Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Serve this creamy pasta bake hot from the oven. It pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also offer some additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who want to sprinkle a bit more on their portion.
how to store Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and slightly tender.
- You can use any type of pasta you like, but stick with shapes that hold the sauce well, like penne or fusilli.
- Feel free to add some vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
variation
If you prefer, you can substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken or even make it a vegetarian dish by adding your favorite veggies instead. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up until baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this pasta bake. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread. You can also serve it with a light wine, like a crisp white.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A delightful dish combining shrimp, garlic, and pasta in a creamy sauce topped with melted cheese, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Pasta and Shrimp
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce Components
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, and top with remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serve hot from the oven. Pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For storage, let the dish cool completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.