There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen, transporting you to a coastal Italian kitchen. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting blend of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked linguine, and the rich flavors of garlic and lemon, all baked to a bubbly perfection in just 45 minutes. The harmonious combination of ingredients ensures a delightful meal that’s sure to impress.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a cozy dinner that’s pleasing to both the eye and palate. It’s great for family gatherings or a casual weeknight meal. Make it ahead of time, and simply warm it up when you’re ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of shrimp and pasta creates a satisfying, hearty dish.
- A crisp Panko breadcrumb topping adds texture that complements the creamy pasta.
- Quick prep and cooking time make it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
- The bright lemony flavor elevates the entire dish, refreshing your palate.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish.
For the Pasta and Shrimp
- 1 lb (454 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (227 g) linguine pasta
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp (57 g) butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) chicken broth
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) lemon juice
For Topping
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (15 g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup (55 g) Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp (28 g) melted butter
- 1 tsp (2 g) lemon zest
Use unsalted butter for a more controlled flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Shrimp can be replaced with chicken.
- Linguine can be substituted with spaghetti or any pasta variety.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried herbs.
- Chicken broth can be exchanged for vegetable broth.
How to Make It
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot for baking the pasta.
Cook the linguine
Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes, then drain.
Melt the butter
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare the sauce
Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet, simmer briefly for about 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked linguine, shrimp, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Transfer to baking dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Mix the topping
In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and lemon zest until well combined.
Sprinkle and bake
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the pasta. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the pasta may become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the shrimp is cooked just until opaque to maintain tenderness.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the dish set.
- For a little kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Complement with a glass of chilled white wine for a classy touch.
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