Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly Recipe

If you adore seafood and pasta, get ready to fall in love with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. The magic begins when you cook the shrimp in garlicky butter, swirl it all in creamy sauce, and, best of all, transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly for that iconic golden, cheesy finish. Each bite is indulgent, citrusy, and layered with cozy textures. It’s a main dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy—just what you want for a memorable dinner with friends or a satisfying weekend treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, delicious ingredients that each play a starring role in creating big, welcoming flavor. Nothing is extra or fussy—everything here either builds creaminess, adds vibrant color, or amps up the richness of this craveable shrimp scampi pasta bake.

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta; it soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully.
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or frozen both work; shrimp is the star protein that delivers mild sweetness.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a glossy finish to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for that aromatic and classic scampi flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth: White wine gives brightness, but broth works great if you’d rather skip the alcohol.
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested): Lemony zing lifts the creamy sauce and wakes up all the flavors.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to a truly comforting, velvety sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Savory depth and that nutty, salty touch.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For the gooey, browned top we all crave in a baked pasta.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Adjust seasoning so the flavors sing.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A burst of freshness and color to finish everything off.

How to Make Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for melting the cheese and giving your pasta bake that irresistible golden crust when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your linguine or spaghetti just until al dente. Drain it well—remember, it will keep cooking in the oven when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly with sauce and cheese.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a generous skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about a minute. The kitchen instantly comes alive with warm, inviting aromas that will soon infuse the whole bake.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in the skillet with your buttery garlic base. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, then scoop them out and set aside. This locks in their tenderness and flavor, so they remain succulent after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly before the final bake.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

Now add the white wine or chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up those savory browned bits from the bottom. Let it bubble gently for 2 minutes for a rich, bright base.

Step 6: Combine Flavors

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. This step creates the dreamy, tangy, creamy sauce that will coat every strand of pasta once you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to your skillet and toss so it drinks up all the flavorful sauce. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your personal taste!

Step 8: Assemble the Dish – Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly

The magic happens here! Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly to make a generous and inviting layer. Arrange the cooked shrimp right on top, so every scoop will catch a few juicy bites.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella liberally over the shrimp and pasta. These cheeses will melt together for a creamy, lightly browned finish that’s so satisfying.

Step 10: Bake

Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let everything bake for 15-20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbling, while the edges get just a little crisp—absolutely irresistible!

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

When it emerges from the oven, finish your pasta bake masterpiece with a scattering of fresh parsley. This adds a still-warm, herbaceous freshness right before serving.

How to Serve Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and a touch of brightness, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley (and maybe a little grated parmesan) over the top just after baking. You can also hit it with a squeeze of fresh lemon if you love that zesty finish. This simple flourish elevates presentation each time you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Side Dishes

Serve this shrimp scampi pasta bake alongside a crisp mixed green salad tossed with vinaigrette, or a side of garlic bread perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli are also fantastic for a touch of green.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or casual gathering, portion the pasta bake into mini ramekins so everyone has their own personal serving. Or, for family style, just bring the bubbling dish straight to the table—the effect of transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly is always gorgeous and inviting. Don’t be afraid to get playful with different cheese blends on top for both variety and color!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover shrimp scampi pasta bake to room temperature before sealing in an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to three days, ready for you to savor another easy meal.

Freezing

This bake freezes quite well before or after baking. If you’d like to prep it ahead, assemble and transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly, cover tightly, and freeze for up to two months. To bake from frozen, add extra baking time and cover until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat individual portions, microwave them until hot, or bake in a 350°F oven, covered, for 15-20 minutes. If the pasta looks a bit dry, drizzle on a little extra cream before warming up—it’ll bring back that luscious, just-made texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking. They’ll taste just as flavorful and juicy once you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can swap in half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Avoid non-fat milk, as it won’t provide the creamy texture you crave.

What can I use instead of white wine?

Chicken broth is a perfect substitute and keeps things flavorful without alcohol. Either one is delicious—it’s all up to your preference!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pasta and shrimp, transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to heat it through completely.

How do I know when the bake is done?

The cheese should be melted and golden, and you’ll see a gentle bubbling around the edges. If you’re baking from chilled or frozen, check that the center is piping hot before serving.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this pasta bake enough—it’s that dish you make once and then crave again and again. The combination of creamy sauce, bright lemon, and tender shrimp is pure magic, all wrapped in bubbly cheese after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Make this once and you’ll have a new comfort classic for your dinner table!

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