Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight for Beginners
A delicious pasta bake featuring succulent shrimp, garlic, lemon, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for beginner cooks, this recipe is easy, flavorful, and comforting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Baking, Stovetop, Assembling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even baking. Use an oven.
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Al dente means the pasta is slightly firm to the bite. Use a pot. Use a stove top. Use a colander.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Use a large skillet. Use a stove top. Use a spoon.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside. Cook the shrimp until they are just cooked through to avoid overcooking. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. This deglazes the pan and adds flavor to the sauce. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
- Combine Flavors: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Simmering allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Use a large skillet. Use a spoon.
- Assemble Dish: Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top. Use a baking dish that can hold all the pasta and shrimp. Use a baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp. Distribute the cheese evenly for a golden topping. Use a baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning. Use an oven. Use a timer.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Parsley adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color. Use a serving plate.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp.
- Don’t overcook shrimp.
- Al dente pasta is best.
- Fresh lemon is key.