Description
If you love classic shrimp scampi but want something extra comforting, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is for you! It’s packed with tender shrimp, garlic, buttery lemon sauce, and cheesy pasta goodness. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an easy make-ahead meal for busy nights.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon (for extra brightness)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Add Toppings & Bake
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pasta.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen, thaw them in cold water before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it bakes in the oven, al dente pasta prevents mushiness.
- Extra Creamy? Add more heavy cream or a handful of shredded mozzarella before baking.
- Crunchy Topping Hack: Broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra golden, crispy top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American