A delightful combination of garlicky shrimp scampi and the comforting appeal of a cheesy pasta bake. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is bursting with flavor, easy to make, and sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Rich Flavor: Butter, garlic, lemon, and shrimp come together in a luscious creamy sauce.
• Cheesy Perfection: A golden layer of mozzarella and Parmesan creates the ultimate comfort food.
• Versatile Recipe: Customize with your favorite vegetables, protein swaps, or gluten-free pasta.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this dish achievable for home cooks of all levels.
• Crowd Pleaser: Both elegant and comforting, ideal for gatherings or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp:

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

• Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
• Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Toss the Pasta

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the pasta.
• Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.

6. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swaps: Replace shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• Herbs: Use basil, dill, or thyme for a fresh twist.
• Wine-Free Version: Replace white wine with chicken broth and a touch of extra lemon juice.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives.

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake delivers a perfect blend of elegance and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or a simple family meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. Enjoy! ❤️