Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed); 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional for richer flavor); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ½ cup spinach; Lemon wedges (for serving)

Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly baked pasta topped with golden, bubbly cheese. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any special occasion when you want to impress with minimal effort. This easy recipe blends seafood flavor with cheesy pasta goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional for richer flavor)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cup spinach
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until coated in the creamy sauce. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Add Shrimp and Cheese:
Distribute the cooked shrimp evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.

6. Bake the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a golden top.

7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with optional lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes