Craving a comforting yet elegant meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! This recipe elevates the classic shrimp scampi into a satisfying, baked pasta dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a creamy, garlicky sauce, perfectly coating perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. This dish is bursting with flavor and texture, a delightful combination of savory shrimp, aromatic garlic, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. We’ve simplified the classic dish to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. The result? A delicious and impressive pasta bake that's ready in under an hour. Ready to dive into the simple steps? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 3-4 tablespoons
- Shrimp: 2 lbs (peeled, deveined, tails off)
- Garlic: 4 cloves (pre-minced or fresh)
- White wine: 1/2 cup
- Lemon juice: 1/4 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (grated)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (melted)
- Bowtie pasta: 12 ounces
- Parsley: fresh chopped (or dried)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Shrimp and Sauce
- Preheat oven and add olive oil to a large skillet.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and fry until pink and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and stir. If using fresh garlic, sauté for a minute.
- Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir.
- Stir in melted butter.
Step 2. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
Step 3. Bake and Garnish
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Add more Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
- Bake uncovered in a 375°F oven for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Don't be shy with the garlic – scampi needs plenty!
- If using fresh garlic, sauté it for about a minute before adding other ingredients.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent a watery sauce.
2. What kind of pasta works best?
Linguine or fettuccine are excellent choices because they hold the sauce well. You can also use other long pasta shapes.
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfying comfort of this simple yet impressive dish!