Homemade Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a luxurious, one-pan twist on a classic Italian favorite, featuring succulent, garlic-butter seared shrimp nestled in a bed of cheesy, oven-baked pasta. The dish is brought together by a rich, velvety white sauce that perfectly lacquers every noodle, while the golden-brown cheese topping provides a satisfying, savory crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 lb short pasta penne or fusilli
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta in salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Shrimp: Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large oven-safe skillet. Sear shrimp with a pinch of salt for 1–2 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in broth and heavy cream; simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Stir in lemon juice, zest, cooked pasta, and seared shrimp. Toss until well-coated in the sauce.
- Bake: Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges. Serve immediately.