Description
A comforting Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake featuring tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a cozy yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white cooking wine (or additional chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and white wine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- For a richer sauce, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before baking.
- For a crispier topping, mix 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Use whole wheat pasta or reduce the cheese for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in a 350°F oven or microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
