Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Dish!

Name: Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Peeled and deveined.); 2 tablespoons Butter (For sautéing.); 3 cloves Minced garlic (Fresh for best flavor.); 1 cup Chicken broth (Use low-sodium.); 1 cup Heavy cream (For a creamy sauce.); 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (For mixing in and topping.); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (For mixing in.); 1 cup Additional mozzarella cheese (For topping.); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (For brightness.); 1 tablespoon Red pepper flakes (Optional, for heat.); 1 handful Breadcrumbs (For crispy topping.); Salt and pepper To taste (For seasoning.)

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This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is like a warm hug on a plate! Picture succulent shrimp mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s bursting with flavor. We’re swapping out the wine for a splash of lemon juice and a hint of chicken broth, keeping it light and zesty. Topped with a golden, cheesy crust, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Trust me, you’re going to love the creamy, cheesy goodness!
This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Easy to make and even easier to devour!
Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!

Recipe Snapshot

Feature	Details
Category	Side Dish
Cuisine	American-inspired comfort food
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes
Dietary	Vegetarian
Serves	4
Best Served	Hot and cheesy right off the cob!

Ingredients

Pasta – Choose your favorite type, like penne or rotini, for a hearty base.
Shrimp – Use fresh or frozen shrimp for a delicious seafood flavor.
Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma to the dish.
Lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
Parmesan cheese – Provides a savory, cheesy depth to the bake.
Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a hint of heat.
Chicken broth – Use low-sodium for a flavorful cooking liquid.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Recipe

Get ready to whip up a delicious Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with these easy steps!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty for your pasta bake.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your favorite pasta (like penne or rotini) until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 pound of shrimp (peeled and deveined) and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and creamy sauce. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the cheesy shrimp pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the top with an additional 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and a handful of breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy finish.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, comforting creation with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite and better presentation.
• Cook pasta al dente; it will absorb flavors while baking.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh kick.
• Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s key to that classic scampi taste.

How to Serve

Enjoy your Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with these delightful serving suggestions:

Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Serve with a side of garlic bread for that extra crunch.
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
Offer a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for a healthy touch.
For a fun twist, serve in individual ramekins for a personal touch.
Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Complement with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing leftovers is easy and helps you enjoy your Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta bake into freezer-safe containers.
• Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover tightly.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish.
• Cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work great in this dish. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?

You can use chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water as a substitute for white wine. This will add flavor without the alcohol.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve!

What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Penne or rotini pasta are excellent choices for this recipe. They hold the sauce well and provide a nice texture in every bite.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your new favorite comfort dish, Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. So grab your ingredients, whip up this delightful bake, and enjoy every cheesy, shrimp-filled bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll be dreaming of this dish long after the last forkful!