Are you craving a delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor? The Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is just the recipe you need! This mouthwatering dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even cozy nights in. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels. Let’s dive in!
Why Make This Recipe?
Making this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not just about enjoying a tasty meal; it’s also about the joy of cooking something special without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish brings together the best of both worlds—it’s rich, cheesy, and comforting while remaining relatively easy to prepare.
- Convenience: It can be prepared in under an hour, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option.
- Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates a deliciously vibrant taste that everyone will love.
- Versatility: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting seafood.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family, this dish is sure to impress.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (cavatappi, cellentani, penne, or rotini)
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Cook for another minute, then add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemon lemonade pairs perfectly with the flavors of the shrimp scampi. Remember to sprinkle some extra parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
How to Store Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Tips for Success with Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: The quality of shrimp can make a big difference in flavor. Look for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Customize: Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for an extra nutrition boost.
- Cheese Selection: While this recipe calls for Parmesan and mozzarella, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a tasty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture for a spicy twist.
- Different Sauces: Try substituting heavy cream with Alfredo sauce for a creamier texture or a marinara sauce for a tomato-based twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
In conclusion, the Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a fantastic recipe that delivers on taste while being easy to prepare. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners or when you’re hosting friends. For more delicious recipes, check out our pasta recipes and explore countless ways to enhance your home cooking!
Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Cook for another minute, then add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.