Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – An Organized Chaos

Why Make This Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, garlic, and pasta all baked together. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its rich taste and cheesy goodness. Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

tag

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
5. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Serve the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake warm, directly from the oven. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, let the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Tips to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Ensure the shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid overcooking.
• You can add extra vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for more nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

Variation

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or even a mix of seafood if you prefer. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, to give a new twist to the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed.

What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
It goes well with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine.

Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.