Introduction
Welcome to a cozy evening of culinary delight! There’s something truly comforting about a cheesy, baked pasta dish, especially when it features succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy sauce. This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious blend of melty cheeses, seasoned shrimp, and a hint of lemon that brightens everything up. Gather your loved ones around the table, and let’s bake something magical together!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for our cheesy creation.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking them together for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn a beautiful pink and are opaque, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and add the lemon juice. Stir the mixture gently until the cheeses melt and form a creamy sauce.
- Carefully mix in the cooked pasta, ensuring that each piece is generously coated in the creamy shrimp mixture.
- Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- If you love cheese as much as I do, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella on top. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish your masterpiece with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness!
Notes or Tips
This dish is versatile! Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or your favorite protein. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, simply increase the red pepper flakes. Enjoy experimenting!
Cooking Techniques
How you cook your pasta can make all the difference—remember to slightly undercook it since it will continue to cook in the oven. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant before adding the shrimp enhances the flavor depth in the dish. Lastly, don’t skip the resting time after baking; allowing it to cool slightly will help the dish firm up, making serving a breeze.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day. When ready, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with this pasta bake?
A simple green salad and some crusty bread make perfect accompaniments to this cheesy delight!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with family and friends. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta evokes a sense of comfort and home. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy this deliciously satisfying bake tonight — you deserve it!