Imagine the rich, garlicky flavors of traditional shrimp scampi, combined with tender pasta and a golden, cheesy crust. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings comfort food to a whole new level, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let's dive into this mouthwatering dish that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Quick Recipe Overview
Feature Details
- Dish Name : Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Prep Time 20 minutes
- Cook Time 25 minutes
- Total Time 45 minutes
- Servings 6
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 500 kcal
- Main Ingredients: Shrimp, pasta, garlic, butter, cheese
- Difficulty Level : Easy
Ingredients
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For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (340g) linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water with salt until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp with garlic butter, white wine or chicken broth, lemon juice and zest, chopped parsley, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss until well mixed.
Assemble the Bake
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped chives before serving, if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Pasta Choice: While linguine is traditional, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne based on your preference.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is an excellent alternative that still provides depth of flavor.
Cheese Variations: For a richer taste, consider adding a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina along with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient Amount
- Calories ~500 kcal
- Protein 30g
- Carbohydrates 45g
- Fat 20g
- Saturated Fat 10g
- Cholesterol 180mg
- Sodium 600mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
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Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta bake.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the dish.
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FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure they're fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
A: Yes! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for an extra kick.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
A: Certainly! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of classic flavors and comforting textures. With its creamy garlic butter sauce, succulent shrimp, and cheesy topping, it's a dish that promises to impress. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
