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This shrimp scampi pasta bake transforms a classic Italian restaurant favorite into a comforting casserole perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The tender pasta and plump shrimp are enveloped in a garlic-infused, buttery sauce with bright notes of lemon, then topped with a golden blanket of melted cheese. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of creamy richness, delicate seafood, and zesty brightness.
I first made this dish when having friends over who loved both shrimp scampi and baked pasta. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested whenever we gather. The beauty of the dish is how it elevates simple ingredients into something that feels special without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: Large, plump shrimp (16-20 count per pound) work best; fresh is ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp works well too.
- Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are traditional, but any long pasta works well.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for authentic scampi flavor.
- White wine: Choose a dry variety like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Heavy cream: Adds a luxurious texture that binds the sauce.
- Cheese blend: Parmesan in the sauce and mozzarella on top create perfect balance.
Cooking Instructions
- Cook pasta properly for baking
- Boil pasta until just shy of al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking to help them sear rather than steam. Cook just until pink and slightly curled, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Make a flavorful sauce
- Saute garlic in butter until fragrant, about 60 seconds. Add red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Reduce wine properly
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half to concentrate flavor before adding cream.
- Balance the creamy element
- Add heavy cream and simmer gently without boiling. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water; if too thin, let it simmer longer before baking.
- Assemble with even distribution
- Toss the pasta in the sauce until fully coated, then evenly distribute the shrimp throughout the dish.
- Create the perfect cheesy topping
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake until golden and bubbly
- Place in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted with golden spots and the sauce is bubbling.
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The Science of Garlic Flavor
Mincing garlic and cooking it briefly in butter creates the sweet, aromatic base that defines scampi. If you prefer a stronger garlic punch, add half at the beginning and the rest before adding the wine.
Wine Selection Matters
The wine adds depth and acidity to balance the richness of the cream. Dry varieties like Pinot Grigio work best, but if substituting broth, add extra lemon juice for brightness.
Creating the Perfect Cream Sauce
Gently simmer the cream without boiling to prevent separation. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water; if too thin, let it simmer longer before baking.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Prepare everything up to the baking stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake with an additional 10 minutes if starting from cold.
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This shrimp scampi pasta bake embodies how home cooking can transform familiar flavors into something both comforting and special. It retains all the classic scampi elements while adding the heartiness of a baked pasta dish. The way the sauce infuses into the pasta creates layers of flavor that simply can't be achieved with a stovetop version. Whether for a casual family meal or a dinner party, this dish strikes the perfect balance between impressive and approachable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
- Yes, frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. Thaw them completely first, then pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sauté properly and don't release excess water into the sauce.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream to make this lighter?
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of flour (whisk together before adding to the sauce). The sauce won't be quite as rich but will still be delicious. You could also use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- → Can I prepare this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble this dish up to 24 hours ahead of time. Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- → What sides pair well with this pasta bake?
- This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing, roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. A simple Caesar salad also makes an excellent complement.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! While linguine and spaghetti work well, any medium to long pasta shape that can hold sauce works great. Try fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even bow ties (farfalle). Just be sure to cook the pasta to al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly in the oven.