Are you ready to savor a dish that combines rich flavors with easy cooking? This Savory Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect meal for any night. You’ll enjoy tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Plus, with just a few simple steps, you can impress your family and friends. Let’s dive in and get cooking this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the essential ingredients for this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Each one plays a key role in making this dish flavorful and fun to eat. Here’s what you need:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient adds its own magic. The penne pasta serves as a sturdy base. The shrimp brings a sweet, ocean flavor. Garlic and red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Lemon juice brightens the dish, making it lively and fresh. The creamy sauce binds everything together, with cheeses giving a rich, cheesy finish.
I recommend using large shrimp for a satisfying bite. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and flavor too. For a complete experience, check out the Full Recipe for precise measurements and cooking tips!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure it’s hot and ready for baking.
2. Cooking the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it in a large mixing bowl.
3. Preparing the shrimp and sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic smells good.
4. Combining the ingredients for baking: After cooking the shrimp, combine it with the pasta, sauce, and tomatoes in your bowl. Mix everything well to coat the pasta.
Detailed Cooking Steps
1. Sautéing garlic and shrimp: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Combining pasta with sauce mixture: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Add half the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy. Pour this mixture over the pasta and gently toss everything together.
Baking and Serving
1. Transferring to baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into it and spread evenly. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
2. Baking time and temperature: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for melted cheese and a golden brown edge.
3. Garnishing before serving: After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the taste of your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, add some fresh herbs. Fresh basil or thyme can make a big difference. You can also sprinkle in some capers for a salty kick. If you like it hot, increase the red pepper flakes. Always taste as you go. Adjusting spice levels will help you find the perfect heat for your dish.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking shrimp perfectly is key. Make sure your pan is hot. This helps the shrimp cook quickly and evenly. Cook shrimp until they turn pink. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Do not overcook them! They can become tough.
For pasta, cook it al dente. This means the pasta should still have a slight bite. Follow the package instructions but check it a minute early. Drain the pasta well to avoid sogginess in your bake.
Presentation Suggestions
For serving, dish the pasta bake straight from the oven. This keeps it warm and inviting. To make it look fancy, add a sprig of fresh parsley on each plate. A lemon wedge can add a nice touch and fresh flavor.
Pair your pasta bake with a light salad or garlic bread. A simple mixed green salad works well. It balances the richness of the dish. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the pasta for a gluten-free option. Look for gluten-free penne or rotini. These options work well and taste great! You can also try different cheeses. Instead of Parmesan, use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Feta cheese can add a nice tang too.
Dietary Modifications
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream. This keeps the dish rich while being kind to your tummy. For a low-carb version, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. This cuts carbs while keeping it delicious.
Flavor Tweaks
Adding vegetables boosts the nutrition and flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus work well. You can also use different seafood, like scallops or crab. If you want a different protein, try chicken or tofu. These tweaks keep the recipe fresh and exciting.
For more tips and ideas, check the Full Recipe!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Procedures
You can freeze your pasta bake before or after baking. If you freeze it before, prepare it as normal but skip the baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to three months. To freeze after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it well.
For thawing, place the frozen dish in the fridge overnight. This keeps it safe and helps maintain texture. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal even after a freeze! For the Full Recipe, check earlier in the article.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
The shrimp turns pink and opaque when cooked. It usually takes 3-4 minutes in the pan. If the shrimp curls tightly, it may be overcooked. For perfect shrimp, watch them closely.
Can I prepare the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep it a day ahead. Just store the uncooked dish in the fridge. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Size and Adjustments
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake serves about six people. It’s ideal for a family meal or small gathering. If you have a larger group, consider making two dishes.
How to scale the recipe for larger gatherings?
To scale up, simply double the ingredients. Use a larger baking dish to fit everything. Adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
Cooking Tips
What kind of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Large shrimp is best because they hold their shape. Look for shrimp that is peeled and deveined for ease. Fresh shrimp makes a big difference in flavor.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great, you can use fusilli or rigatoni. Just make sure to cook the pasta until al dente. This keeps it from getting too soft in the bake.
Full Recipe
For easy reference, check out the Full Recipe (Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake 🧄).
This recipe offers a simple way to make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. You learned about the ingredients needed, how to prepare and cook, and tips to enhance flavor. I shared storage tips to keep your dish fresh. Remember, you can tweak it to match your taste. Whether you add veggies or try different cheeses, there are many options. Enjoy a tasty meal with friends and family. Cooking should be fun and delicious!
