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! ❤️