Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Indulgent, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food Delight

Creamy Shrimp Scampi Goodness

Growing up as a Florida girl, my heart is forever enchanted by the bold, soul-warming flavors of Mexico. Memories flood back of happy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my mama, pressing tortillas and soaking up the spice magic from my abuela. Those moments taught me that food is a tender mix of love, laughter, and stories delightfully shared between bites. Though Orlando is my home, a piece of me will always wander through Oaxaca’s vibrant markets and my abuela’s fragrant kitchen. Join me in creating a creamy shrimp scampi pasta bake, where each bite tells a story of comfort and connection.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-American
Best Season: Year-round

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with succulent shrimp creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist, making this dish perfect for cozy nights in.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious meal without stress.
Baked Perfection: The bubbling cheese topping and golden crust add an irresistible finish, making it both visually appealing and utterly satisfying.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both adults and kids alike, offering a way to introduce seafood into your family’s meals in a fun way.
Versatile Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make for a quick and delicious lunch option the next day, keeping the flavors as vibrant as when it was freshly baked.

Ingredients List

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Tips

Shrimp: Fresh, wild-caught shrimp will enhance the dish’s flavor, but frozen shrimp can be a convenient alternative—just be sure to thaw them properly.
Pasta: For a lighter option, consider whole wheat or chickpea pasta, which add great texture and extra nutrients.
Cheeses: To elevate the flavor, try using a blend of different cheeses such as sharp cheddar or smoked gouda alongside the mozzarella.
Cream: Use full-fat heavy cream for rich creaminess, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Then add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture in the skillet, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they cook quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as they’re no longer translucent.
Adjust the Cheese: For extra creaminess, increase the amount of mozzarella, but take care not to overpower the other flavors.
Garnish with Zest: Consider adding fresh lemon zest on top just before serving for a fresh pop of citrus flavor.
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients truly elevate this dish to restaurant-level quality.

Recipe Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or cherry tomatoes into the mix for added color and nutrition, creating a heartier dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for those who enjoy a touch of heat, enhancing the overall flavor.
Pasta Alternatives: Swap out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free option that’s equally delicious.
Seafood Medley: Mix in other seafood such as scallops or clams for a luxurious twist and richer flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is the perfect refreshing accompaniment.
Sides: Serve with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a light contrast.
Desserts: Finish your meal with a light and zesty lemon sorbet or a rich chocolate mousse for a sweet treat.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

You can prepare the creamy shrimp scampi pasta bake a day in advance. Assemble the dish but hold off on baking it until you’re ready to serve. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. To freeze, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-50 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Ideas

For an appealing presentation, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins for single servings. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Kitchen Wisdom

Use a Non-Stick Pan: Using a non-stick skillet will help prevent the shrimp from sticking and ensure an even cook.
Take the Time to Sauté: Allow the garlic to sauté until fragrant but not brown; this will enhance the flavor without bitterness.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the pasta and sauce mixture before transferring it to the baking dish to adjust seasonings for perfection.
Baking Dish Matters: Use a wide, shallow baking dish to promote even cooking and to get that nice bubbly cheese topping.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. For best texture, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to rejuvenate the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them in advance and pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra water in your dish.
What type of pasta works best? Any short pasta works well, but penne or rotini hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta; the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is this dish? This version is mild, but feel free to add spices to suit your taste!
Can I skip the baking step? Yes! You can serve the dish straight from the stovetop if you prefer a creamier texture.
What other seafood can I add? Feel free to mix in scallops, crab, or even chunks of fish for a mixed seafood bake.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

Personal Note

Creating this creamy shrimp scampi pasta bake took me back to those afternoons with my family, where every ingredient added a layer of love to our meals. Sharing food is such a beautiful way to connect with those we care about, and this recipe embodies that spirit perfectly. I hope it warms your heart just as it has warmed mine.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure! I encourage you to try this creamy shrimp scampi pasta bake, share your version on Pinterest, and create delicious memories around your table. With each bite, may you experience the love and comfort that beautiful meals bring, just like in my kitchen.