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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting twist on classic shrimp scampi, combining succulent shrimp with a garlicky, lemony butter sauce and a bubbly, golden cheese topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, its rich flavors and make-ahead potential make it a new go-to meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions). Drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  4. Using the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and allow the flavors to meld for a minute.
  6. In a baking dish, combine the drained pasta, cooked shrimp, and the garlic-lemon sauce from the skillet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mixture, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a beautiful golden hue.
  8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For best results, cook the pasta just until al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious sauce. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp in the skillet to avoid a rubbery texture. This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Enjoy with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted greens, or plenty of garlic bread.