There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of baked pasta filling the kitchen. This shrimp scampi pasta bake is a twist on a family classic, inspired by Sunday dinners with my grandmother who believed every meal should be made with love—and a little extra cheese. Bring everyone to the table with this rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz penne or linguine pasta
3 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.
Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Deglaze skillet with white wine or broth, then add lemon juice and cream. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Let sauce thicken slightly.
Mix cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley.
For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped spinach before baking.
Swap shrimp with chicken if you prefer a milder taste.