The Ultimate Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights? The Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe is exactly what you need! Combining succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky sauce and baked to perfection, this dish offers both ease and taste. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or create a simple, satisfying meal for your family, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s quick, versatile, and has a delightful blend of savory and creamy flavors. If you enjoy seafood dishes or are a fan of pasta, this is a must-try!

The best part about shrimp scampi pasta is that it requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for even the busiest days. With only a few ingredients like shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and cheese, you’ll have a meal that’s both easy and elegant. Paired with a crisp white wine or some fresh garlic bread, it’s a meal everyone will rave about. If you’re not familiar with shrimp scampi, it traditionally consists of shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and lemon, but in this recipe, we take it a step further with a baked twist.

If you’re new to the world of shrimp scampi, don’t worry! This dish is perfect for beginners. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen shrimp, the ingredients come together quickly, creating a delectable meal that’s ready in no time. And if you’re already a fan of shrimp-based recipes, this baked version adds a new layer of texture and flavor that will elevate your cooking game. Curious? Let’s dive into why this dish is perfect for dinner tonight.

Why Choose Shrimp Scampi Pasta for Dinner Tonight?

Why should you consider this dish for your next meal? There are several reasons why the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta stands out. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The pasta cooks in under 10 minutes, and the shrimp only takes a few minutes to sauté. From there, it’s just a matter of combining everything and letting it bake in the oven for a golden, cheesy finish.

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can choose your favorite type of pasta—whether it’s traditional spaghetti, penne, or even rotini—and it will work beautifully. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, making each bite full of flavor. Plus, it’s a great dish for those who are new to cooking or want a no-fuss dinner. If you don’t have shrimp on hand, you can even switch it out for other proteins or veggies, making this an adaptable recipe for everyone.

Another reason this recipe is perfect for tonight? It’s incredibly satisfying. The blend of garlic, parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and fresh herbs like parsley adds a punch of flavor, while the shrimp provides a delicious contrast with its sweetness and tenderness. With all these tasty ingredients, you’re sure to be left with a dish that will please even the pickiest eaters.

To make this even easier, the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta can be prepared in advance. You can assemble everything ahead of time and then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’s one of those dishes that gets better as it bakes, so you’ll have leftovers that are just as delicious the next day.

So, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for more, this is the recipe to try.

• Shrimp – Learn more about shrimp.

• Pasta – Discover the history of pasta.

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Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish

Main Ingredients

The Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Let’s explore the role of each key ingredient in enhancing the dish.

• Shrimp: The star of this dish is, of course, the shrimp. Choosing large, peeled, and deveined shrimp is crucial for achieving the best texture. The shrimp’s natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the garlic and lemon in the sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. When cooking shrimp, the goal is to ensure they are tender and not overcooked. Properly cooked shrimp will bring a satisfying bite to every forkful of pasta.

• Pasta: The type of pasta used plays an important role in the overall dish. While you can opt for any pasta you like, traditional spaghetti or penne are commonly used for shrimp scampi. Penne is especially great because it holds the sauce well in each tube, providing a delightful bite. When choosing pasta, make sure to cook it al dente so it retains its texture even after baking in the oven.

• Olive Oil and Butter: These two ingredients serve as the foundation of the sauce. The olive oil brings a fruity richness that helps to sauté the garlic and shrimp, while the butter adds creaminess and depth to the sauce. A combination of olive oil and butter results in a silky-smooth sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly. For the best flavor, opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

• Garlic: Garlic is the defining ingredient in shrimp scampi. It adds a warm, aromatic base that complements the shrimp and sauce beautifully. As the garlic sauté in the olive oil and butter, it infuses the entire dish with its rich flavor. The key is to sauté it just enough to release its fragrance without burning it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

• Red Pepper Flakes: While not mandatory, red pepper flakes can be added for a bit of heat. They enhance the overall flavor profile, making the dish more dynamic and exciting. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice. If you’re looking to add even more heat, consider incorporating fresh chili peppers into the mix.

Flavorful Additions

Once you’ve mastered the main ingredients, you’ll notice that some additions really elevate the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Chicken Broth: The chicken broth serves as the base for the creamy sauce. It provides a savory, umami-packed flavor that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and pasta. The broth also helps to thin out the sauce, ensuring it coats the pasta evenly. You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option or to make the dish vegetarian.

• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the sauce. It enhances the flavors of the shrimp and garlic, giving the dish a refreshing balance. The zesty flavor of lemon also works in perfect harmony with the creamy elements in the sauce.

• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is what gives this dish its rich, velvety texture. It helps bind the sauce together, making it smooth and indulgent. While heavy cream can add a bit of indulgence, it also helps to temper the acidity of the lemon juice, creating a more balanced flavor. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.

• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheeses: These two cheeses create a golden, bubbly topping when baked. Mozzarella adds a mild, creamy texture, while Parmesan delivers a nutty, savory flavor. Together, they provide a satisfying cheesy crust that adds both flavor and texture to the dish. The mozzarella also melts beautifully into the pasta, making every bite gooey and irresistible.

• Fresh Parsley: Finally, fresh parsley is the perfect garnish for this dish. It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the pasta. The herbal note from parsley complements the garlic and lemon, rounding out the flavor profile of the entire dish.

By carefully selecting and combining these ingredients, you’ll achieve a harmonious, flavor-packed baked shrimp scampi pasta. Each component contributes to a well-rounded dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, with a balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.

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• Olive Oil – The role of olive oil in cooking.

• Garlic – Health benefits of garlic and how it enhances dishes.

• Mozzarella – Discover mozzarella’s role in Italian cuisine.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Baking Dish

Before you begin cooking, it’s important to prepare your baking dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This will ensure that the pasta mixture doesn’t stick to the pan and allows for even baking. The butter also helps to create a golden, crispy top on the cheese once the dish is baked.

Greasing the dish properly ensures easy cleanup later, and it also prevents the pasta from drying out during baking. Once you’ve greased the dish, set it aside while you move on to cooking the pasta and shrimp.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to leave it slightly al dente. You want the pasta to be firm enough to hold its texture when baked. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but don’t discard the pasta water. Reserve about ½ cup of the water to use in the sauce later. This starchy water can help thicken the sauce and make it stick better to the pasta.

While draining the pasta, be sure to give it a quick rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process, especially if you plan to let it sit for a few minutes before combining it with the other ingredients. Once drained, set the pasta aside in a large bowl.

Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan, and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

The shrimp will release some juices while cooking, and you can use these flavorful bits to build the sauce in the next steps. Don’t worry if the shrimp aren’t cooked all the way through at this point; they’ll finish cooking once they’re combined with the sauce and baked in the oven.

Step 4: Creating the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and, if desired, a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to watch the garlic closely so that it doesn’t burn.

Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let the sauce cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. The cream will give the sauce its rich texture, while the chicken broth adds depth of flavor. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you feel the sauce needs a little more brightness, feel free to add an extra splash of lemon juice.

As the sauce simmers, it will begin to thicken and develop a lovely creamy consistency, making it perfect for coating the shrimp and pasta.

Step 5: Combining Ingredients

Now that the pasta, shrimp, and sauce are ready, it’s time to combine everything into one flavorful dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Stir everything gently to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Add in half of the Parmesan cheese and the mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheeses are melted into the sauce.

This step is crucial for achieving that creamy, cheesy texture that makes the dish so delicious. Be sure to coat every piece of pasta with the sauce, and make sure the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Baking the Dish

Once the pasta and shrimp are thoroughly mixed, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. The cheese will melt and create a beautifully golden and bubbly crust.

Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. The cheese should be fully melted and lightly browned, adding both texture and flavor to the final dish.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a burst of color and freshness. The parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also provides a slight herbal note that complements the richness of the pasta and shrimp.

Serve the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta hot, and enjoy! For an extra touch, pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, and perhaps a side of garlic bread for the perfect meal.

Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Choosing the Best Shrimp

To ensure your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta turns out perfectly, the quality of the shrimp is key. It’s important to use large, fresh shrimp that are properly cleaned and deveined. If you opt for frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for faster results. Never thaw shrimp in warm water, as it can affect the texture and make them rubbery.

When purchasing shrimp, consider buying them with the shell on if you’re looking for extra flavor. However, for convenience, peeled and deveined shrimp are perfect for this dish, cutting down on preparation time and effort.

Adjusting the Spice Level

If you love a little heat in your pasta, the red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your personal preference. Start with a small pinch, and gradually add more if you prefer a spicier kick. If you want to intensify the heat, you can even add some finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce.

Alternatively, if you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes altogether or use a milder spice such as paprika. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a different flavor profile.

Creating a Creamier Sauce

For a creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream used in the recipe. The more cream you add, the richer and thicker the sauce will be. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as thick and indulgent, but the flavor will still be delicious.

To enhance the creaminess further, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or even ricotta cheese for a richer texture. These ingredients will melt beautifully into the sauce, adding extra creaminess and a subtle tang.

Using Different Cheeses

While mozzarella and Parmesan are the classic cheese choices for this dish, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create a unique twist. Try using Fontina, Gruyère, or Provolone for a more complex flavor. If you like a sharp bite, a little Asiago cheese can also be a great addition.

If you’re a fan of extra cheese, don’t hesitate to sprinkle more mozzarella or Parmesan over the dish just before baking to achieve an even cheesier crust. For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a drizzle of truffle oil after baking for a decadent finish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

The Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a light option, serve it alongside a Caesar salad or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the pasta. If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the dish beautifully.

For drinks, pair the pasta with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines will enhance the fresh flavors of the shrimp and the creamy sauce. Alternatively, a sparkling wine or a light rosé can also provide a refreshing contrast.

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 Variations of Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version of this dish, simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many options are available, such as rice-based or corn-based pasta. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may cook a bit differently, so be sure to follow the package instructions closely for the best results.

Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth and any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free. Most store-bought broths are, but it’s always a good idea to check labels to be sure.

Vegetarian Version

For those who prefer a vegetarian or plant-based alternative, it’s easy to make this dish meat-free by substituting the shrimp with a variety of vegetables. Mushrooms are an excellent choice, as they absorb the sauce and provide a savory, umami-rich flavor. You can also use zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and color. For a more substantial meal, consider adding tofu or tempeh for protein.

These vegetables can be sautéed in the same way as the shrimp to develop rich flavors, and then combined with the creamy sauce for a delicious vegetarian pasta.

Adding Extra Veggies

If you want to pack even more nutrients into your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta, consider adding extra vegetables. Spinach is a great option, as it wilts beautifully in the sauce. Asparagus or broccoli can also add a lovely crunch and vibrant color. Just make sure to sauté or blanch the vegetables before adding them to the pasta mixture to ensure they’re cooked to perfection.

For a burst of freshness, consider adding some cherry tomatoes right before baking. They’ll provide a pop of color and a slight sweetness that complements the savory shrimp and garlic sauce.

Spicy Shrimp Scampi

For those who love a kick of heat, you can increase the spice level of your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta. If you’re looking for more than just a pinch of red pepper flakes, try adding some fresh chopped chilies, cayenne pepper, or even a spicy hot sauce. This variation will give the dish a deeper heat and a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce.

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 Pairing Suggestions

Wine Pairings

As mentioned earlier, pairing wine with Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta can elevate the overall dining experience. The light, crisp notes of a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc are perfect for complementing the rich and creamy sauce. If you prefer something with a bit more body, a Chardonnay can offer a buttery contrast to the shrimp. The acidity of these wines cuts through the creaminess, balancing the dish’s flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A must-have for mopping up any extra sauce.

• Caesar salad: A classic pairing, providing crisp freshness and tang to balance the richness of the pasta.

• Roasted vegetables: Choose from asparagus, broccoli, or a medley of your favorite roasted veggies to add more texture and color to the meal.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly run them under cold water. Once thawed, peel and devein them if they aren’t already prepared, and they’ll be ready to cook.

What other types of pasta can I use for shrimp scampi?

While penne or spaghetti are traditional, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Rotini, linguine, or even fettuccine work well with the creamy sauce and shrimp. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well during baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble everything (pasta, shrimp, sauce, and cheese) in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake the dish until it’s golden and bubbly, as directed in the recipe.

Can I substitute the cream with a lighter option?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as thick or indulgent, but it will still be flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave the pasta or bake it in the oven. If the sauce has thickened, add a little bit of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up before reheating.

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