Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Flavorful, Cheesy Seafood Delight
Looking for a deliciously indulgent seafood dinner? This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is an easy, flavorful twist on the classic shrimp scampi! With succulent shrimp, a garlicky butter sauce, pasta, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a baked dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a cozy family meal, this shrimp scampi pasta bake is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in and get baking!
Yields: 4 Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1/4 cup olive oil and 1/2 cup butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Scampi Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer), and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley, and let it simmer for another minute until the shrimp is coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked linguine, shrimp, and scampi sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes all the flavors of classic shrimp scampi—garlic, butter, lemon, and fresh parsley—and combines them with the comforting texture of baked pasta. The crispy breadcrumb topping and gooey cheese make this dish extra special. It’s the perfect balance of seafood and cheesy goodness that’s sure to satisfy every craving.
Tips for Success:
- Make it Spicy: If you like some heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp will also work just as well.
- Add Veggies: For a more balanced meal, consider adding some spinach or tomatoes to the mix.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While linguine is the classic choice, you can swap it for any other pasta, like penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil.
What if I don’t have white wine?
No worries! You can substitute the wine with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a splash of lemon juice for extra tang.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: A quick and easy shrimp pasta recipe that’s packed with flavor.
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: If you love seafood and cheese, this mac and cheese recipe will hit the spot!
- Baked Ziti with Sausage: A cheesy, hearty pasta bake with a delicious twist on the classic.
Final Thoughts:
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is an irresistible combination of seafood, pasta, and cheese, all baked to golden perfection. With its rich, buttery sauce and crispy topping, it’s a comfort food dish that brings a bit of elegance to any dinner. Perfect for special occasions or family meals, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Try it today, and you won’t be disappointed!
