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If you are craving a comforting, luscious meal that brings the flavors of a classic Italian favorite right to your kitchen, this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances tender shrimp with a creamy, garlicky sauce baked to bubbling perfection atop your favorite pasta, delivering a delightful dish bursting with flavor and texture. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe calls for straightforward, accessible ingredients that combine to create an irresistibly rich and satisfying experience. Each component plays its part, from the garlic that infuses that signature scampi tang, to the cheeses that add creaminess and depth, and the shrimp that offers a fresh, delicate seafood touch.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Provides a silky base for the sauce and enriches the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp jarred minced garlic: Adds that essential punch of garlicky goodness, saving prep time without sacrificing taste.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a perfect creamy consistency.
- â…“ cup whole milk: Creates a luscious, smooth texture in the sauce.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Adds subtle depth and umami to the flavor profile.
- â…› tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the savory notes.
- â…› tsp pepper: Brings a gentle warmth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 egg (slightly beaten): Binds the sauce ingredients, making the bake rich yet light.
- â…› cup Parmesan cheese (shredded): Offers a nutty, salty flavor that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a touch of mild sweetness to the dish.
- 4 oz uncooked pasta (any shape): Serves as a hearty base to carry all the delicious sauce and shrimp.
- ½ lb raw shrimp, thawed and peeled: The star protein, tender and sweet, complementing the scampi sauce beautifully.
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Creates a bubbly, golden topping that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish both in color and flavor.
How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when your pasta and sauce are combined. While the oven warms, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. This ensures it’s perfectly al dente and ready to soak up the sauce in the next steps.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fragrant and glossy. Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking this mixture until bubbling and smooth, which will form the foundation of your creamy sauce. This step is crucial for developing that rich, velvety texture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasoning
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, followed by sprinklings of salt and pepper. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce thickens and becomes irresistibly creamy. This careful blending builds the signature silky character that makes the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe so comforting.
Step 4: Combine Sauce, Cheese, Pasta, and Shrimp
In a large bowl, whisk together the warm broth-based sauce with the ricotta, Parmesan, and the lightly beaten egg for richness and binding. Toss in the cooked pasta and raw shrimp, folding gently to ensure every strand is coated and every shrimp is nestled in the sauce, ready to bake into tender perfection.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the mixture evenly between two baking dishes. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for that golden, cheesy finish. Bake uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the shrimp turn pink and opaque—signaling your pasta is ready to impress.
How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a simple but amazing addition, adding a pop of lively green and a hint of herbal brightness that beautifully balances the creamy richness of the dish. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also awaken the flavors, making each bite refreshingly vibrant.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Choose sides that add contrast in texture and freshness to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins can turn it into an elegant starter, perfect for dinner parties or date nights. Alternatively, for a family-style approach, a large deep baking dish placed in the center of the table invites a cozy, communal dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked shrimp scampi pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without losing its delicious flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the pasta completely then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within one month for optimal taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce smooth. Adding a splash of milk or broth before reheating can help maintain the creamy consistency. Avoid overheating, which can cause the shrimp to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before mixing into the pasta to prevent excess moisture in the bake.
What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Any pasta shape cooks wonderfully here—from penne to linguine—though shorter shapes like rotini or shells hold the sauce beautifully and make each bite super satisfying.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute butter with a dairy-free spread, use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep the creaminess intact.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and bake in a larger casserole dish or multiple smaller ones to keep the perfect balance of sauce and pasta throughout.
Can I add vegetables to the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe?
Sure thing! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas make fantastic additions that boost nutrition while adding freshness and color to the dish.
Final Thoughts
With its tender shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and satisfying baked cheese topping, the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe is a true comfort food winner that’s surprisingly easy to make. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it turns any meal into a delightful celebration of flavors. Your kitchen will fill with irresistible aroma, and your taste buds are in for a genuine treat!
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Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender pasta in a buttery garlic sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to perfection, this recipe offers a flavorful twist on traditional shrimp scampi by incorporating a rich, cheesy pasta bake, making it an easy and satisfying meal for two.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi Sauce and Pasta
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp jarred minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- â…› tsp salt
- â…› tsp pepper
- 1 egg (slightly beaten)
- â…› cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese
- 4 oz uncooked pasta (any shape)
- ½ lb raw shrimp, thawed and peeled
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the pasta once assembled.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the jarred minced garlic and flour and cook until bubbling to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cooked sauce, slightly beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Mix Pasta and Shrimp: Toss the cooked pasta and peeled raw shrimp together with the cheese sauce mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dishes: Pour the pasta and shrimp mixture into two prepared baking dishes. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dishes in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly, and the shrimp are cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape, but smaller shapes like penne or rotini work well to hold the sauce.
- If you prefer, substitute low-fat milk to reduce fat content.
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
