🍤 Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake 🍝
Indulge in this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake that combines the flavors of classic shrimp scampi with a cheesy pasta bake! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Bake:
8 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fusilli work well)
1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
Cherry tomatoes (halved, for added sweetness)
Baby spinach (for extra greens)
Canned artichoke hearts (chopped, for a Mediterranean twist)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the lemon juice. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Combine:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and any optional add-ins (like cherry tomatoes or spinach). Mix well to coat everything in the sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.