Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite dishes: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! If you’ve ever had a busy day and craved something comforting yet fancy, this dish is just what you need. The first time I made it, I was hosting a small dinner party, and to be honest, I was a little stressed out about being a decent host. I had just moved into my new place, and the kitchen was still in chaos. But the minute I pulled this cheesy, garlicky goodness from the oven, everyone went wild!

The best part? It looks and tastes like something you’d find in a fine dining restaurant but is incredibly easy to whip up. The combination of succulent shrimp, sautéed garlic, a creamy sauce, and al dente pasta all baked together? Absolute heaven! I promise this will become a go-to recipe in your home, and who knows, it might just make you the star of your next gathering!

What’s in Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Pasta: I love using penne or rotini for this dish since the sauce clings beautifully to the shapes. Plus, they hold up really well when baked.

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works wonderfully. Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp properly and peel and devein them before cooking.

Garlic: You can never have enough garlic in a scampi dish! It adds that aromatic punch that lifts the entire recipe.

Butter: A must for that rich, decadent taste! I typically use unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the key to brightening everything up. It cuts through the richness beautifully!

Parmesan Cheese: You can’t go wrong with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan. It’s what gives the dish that cozy, cheesy layer on top!

Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley sprinkles over the top not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh herby note to the dish.

Is Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Good for You?

Let’s talk about the health benefits!

Shrimp: They’re rich in protein and low in calories, making them a great choice for healthy eating. They also provide essential nutrients like iodine, vitamin B12, and selenium. Just keep an eye on how much butter and cheese you add!

Garlic: This flavorful bulb is linked to numerous health benefits, including boosting your immunity and reducing blood pressure. So, don’t skimp on it!

Pasta: Whole grain pasta can be a healthier option as it contains more fiber and nutrients than regular white pasta.

That said, it’s still a creamy, cheesy dish that shouldn’t be a daily staple. Moderation is key here, my friends!

Ingredients List

– 12 ounces of penne or rotini pasta (serves about 4-6)
– 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. **Cook Your Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

3. **Sauté the Shrimp:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

4. **Combine:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the parsley. Toss everything together until combined.

5. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and pour the shrimp and pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly.

6. **Top It Off:** Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and parsley over the top. You might be tempted to add more cheese – I won’t tell if you do!

7. **Bake:** Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let it cool slightly before serving, then dig in! Trust me, your friends and family will be impressed!

Little Twists and Serving Suggestions

If you want to mix it up, consider adding some veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the mix for color and added nutrients. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or a combination of seafood if you’re feeling adventurous. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

So there you have it! I’m excited for you to try this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. I promise it’ll become one of your new favorites, just like it did for me. Don’t forget to share your experience or any fun twists you’ve added – I’d love to hear all about it! Happy cooking!

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