Why make this recipe
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender shrimp with creamy sauce and cheese, creating a delightful flavor that everyone will enjoy. It’s also easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta dish that bakes to perfection?
How to make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- 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 pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine the cooked pasta and shrimp mixture, stirring in half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to serve Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Serve this dish hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with extra parsley for a fresh touch and enjoy!
How to store Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, let the pasta bake cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
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Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting pasta bake combining tender shrimp with creamy sauce and cheese, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- 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 pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine the cooked pasta and shrimp mixture, stirring in half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, include a splash of white wine when cooking the shrimp. Experiment with different pasta types for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Tips to make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- For added flavor, you can include a splash of white wine when cooking the shrimp.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, for a different texture.
- If you want a little kick, add some red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. It will still be creamy and delicious!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before cooking and ensure they are peeled and deveined.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it according to the directions.
3. What can I serve with Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
This dish goes great with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
