- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Cook penne or ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and just opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice, white wine (or chicken broth), and heavy cream. Stir and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and cream sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake 15–20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to allow cheese to melt and lightly brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Serve hot.
Enjoy a creamy, garlicky shrimp pasta bake with a cheesy, golden top—the perfect comfort food for seafood lovers.
Serving and Storage
Serve immediately with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezing: Can be frozen before baking, but cooked shrimp may become rubbery. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month and thaw before baking.
Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture, or thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and continue cooking in the oven.
- White wine adds depth of flavor, but chicken broth works if you prefer no alcohol.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, adjust to your taste.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or bread crumbs on top before baking.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Bake is an indulgent yet easy-to-make seafood casserole that combines the best of pasta, shrimp, and creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a family-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess water in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pasta, sauce, and shrimp in advance, store in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes to baking if chilled.
Can I substitute the pasta?
Penne or ziti works best, but rigatoni or farfalle can also be used.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added for color and nutrition.