Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines succulent sautéed shrimp with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, rigatoni pasta, and a golden breadcrumb topping baked to perfection. A rich and comforting casserole that is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni or penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook the sauce for a few minutes until slightly thickened and well combined. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the panko breadcrumbs if using. Bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot for a delicious and satisfying shrimp scampi pasta bake.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and garnish presentation.
- Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch but can be omitted for a softer topping.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving to save time.
