Savory Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Family Delight

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m sharing a family favorite: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. This dish brings rich flavors together, making it perfect for any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a creamy, savory meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both delicious and fun to make! Let’s dive into the details.

Ingredients

Complete Ingredient List

– 8 ounces uncooked linguine or spaghetti

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Zest and juice of 1 lemon

– 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– Salt and black pepper, to taste

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

When making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, gathering the right ingredients is key. Start with the pasta. I like to use linguine or spaghetti. They hold the sauce well and give a nice bite. Next, choose fresh shrimp. They should be large, peeled, and deveined for best results.

You will also need butter and olive oil for cooking. The garlic adds a nice flavor. Red pepper flakes bring some heat, but you can adjust them to fit your taste.

Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce. Heavy cream makes it rich. Cheese is a must; Parmesan adds a nice salty touch. Lastly, breadcrumbs help create a crispy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Alternative pasta options: You can use penne or gluten-free pasta.

– Shrimp substitutions: Cooked chicken or tofu works well for a different protein.

– Dairy-free alternatives: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese.

Tweaking the ingredients can make this dish fit your needs. If you’re out of shrimp, chicken or tofu can be tasty. For a lighter dish, go dairy-free. You still enjoy the flavor and comfort of this family favorite with these swaps.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to make this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for a perfect bake. While the oven heats, cook your pasta. Use 8 ounces of uncooked linguine or spaghetti. Follow the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Next, it’s time to sauté the shrimp and garlic. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté this mix for about a minute until you smell the garlic. Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combining Ingredients

Now we create the sauce with the shrimp. Stir in the zest of 1 lemon, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a slight simmer. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until it blends well. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. For extra flavor, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce mixture. Gently toss everything until the pasta is well coated.

Baking Instructions

Next, transfer your pasta mix to a greased baking dish, about 9×13 inches. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pasta.

Now, bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden brown and bubbling top. After baking, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool slightly. Finally, garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get perfectly cooked shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough and chewy. Keep an eye on them while you cook.

To ensure your pasta doesn’t get soggy, cook it al dente. Follow package instructions and drain it quickly. Mixing the pasta with the sauce right away keeps it from soaking too much liquid.

Presentation Tips

For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top right before serving. It adds color and freshness. You can also add a little lemon zest for a bright touch.

When serving, use a large serving spoon to scoop out the pasta bake. This keeps the layers intact. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Time-Saving Tips

Prep your ingredients in advance to save time. Peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, and zest the lemon the day before. This way, you can assemble the dish faster.

Using a pressure cooker can cut down on cooking time for the shrimp. Cook them for just a few minutes, and they will be ready for the sauce. This method keeps them juicy and tender.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking instructions above.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can change the flavor of your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake by adding herbs or spices. Fresh basil or thyme adds a nice touch. You can also try using dill or oregano for a different taste. Want some heat? Add more red pepper flakes. You can even mix in some smoked paprika to deepen the flavor.

Incorporating vegetables can also brighten this dish. I like to add spinach or cherry tomatoes. They cook fast and add color. Broccoli or bell peppers work well too. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly.

Dietary Variations

If you need gluten-free options, swap the pasta for gluten-free linguine or spaghetti. There are many kinds available now, so choose one you like. You can also use zucchini noodles, which are low in carbs and gluten-free.

For low-carb variations, skip the pasta entirely. Use cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash instead. Both options hold the sauce well and are filling. You can still enjoy that shrimp and sauce combo without the carbs.

Serving Variations

Pair your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with side dishes for a full meal. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette works great. Garlic bread is another favorite, giving a nice crunch. You can also serve it with steamed veggies for a balanced plate.

To make it a full meal, add a protein source. Grilled chicken or a leafy green salad can turn this bake into a feast. You can even serve it with a creamy soup for a cozy dinner. There are many ways to enjoy this dish!

For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To store your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, cover it tightly. You can use aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This keeps the dish fresh and prevents it from drying out. I recommend using an airtight container for the best results. Glass containers work well because they’re easy to clean and don’t stain.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the pasta bake cool completely. Then, slice it into portions for easy reheating. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps keep the flavors intact. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until hot.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stays good for 3 to 4 days. Look for signs of spoilage before eating. If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or mold, it’s best to throw it away. Keeping an eye on these details helps you enjoy your meal safely.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes about 50 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for cooking. You can have a warm dish ready in no time!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen works well too.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different cheese types. Try mozzarella or cheddar for extra creaminess. Mixing in some feta can also give a nice twist. Cheese adds flavor and makes the dish even more delicious.

What to serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

I recommend serving this dish with a simple salad. A green salad with lemon dressing pairs well. Garlic bread is also a great choice to soak up the sauce. These sides complement the pasta bake beautifully.

Is Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake healthy?

This dish has both good and not-so-good elements. Shrimp is high in protein and low in fat. The heavy cream adds calories, but you can use alternatives like Greek yogurt. Balance it with veggies for a healthier meal.

This blog post shared a great shrimp scampi pasta bake recipe. You learned about the essential ingredients, preparation steps, and tips. There are also variations to suit different diets. Remember, you can make this dish your own by adding herbs, veggies, or alternative pasta. The storage tips will help keep your leftovers fresh. Overall, this recipe is both easy and delicious. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so don’t hesitate to try it! Enjoy your meal and impress your family with this tasty dish.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Discover the joy of cooking with this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake that your whole family will adore! Easy to prepare, this baked dish combines creamy flavors and perfectly cooked shrimp with linguine, garlic, and a crispy topping. Customize it to your taste, whether you're using chicken or making it dairy-free. Ready for a meal that wows? Click through to find the full recipe and impress your loved ones with this savory dish!

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Ingredients

  

8 ounces uncooked linguine or spaghetti

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup breadcrumbs

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a slight simmer.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is well combined. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce mixture, gently tossing until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the pasta mix to a greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches).

In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pasta.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6