Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A comforting pasta bake featuring tender shrimp, bright lemon, garlic, and a cheesy topping, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-off is fine)
- 8 oz short pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus zest if you like extra brightness)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Seasoning And Optional Ingredients
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch (or similar) baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package suggests). Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds. Don’t brown it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn opaque and pink, about 3–4 minutes total, flipping once. Remove shrimp to a plate when done.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Add red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet briefly to warm through for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
Combining and Baking
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp and cream sauce, half the parsley, and half the Parmesan. Toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and the top is golden. If you want a crunchier top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
- Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle remaining parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving.
Notes
For best texture, underbake slightly before freezing if meal prepping. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting. Pair with a crisp green salad and a bright vinaigrette.