Description
If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort and flavor together, look no further than this delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich and creamy sauce, topped with bubbling cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish balances convenience with gourmet flair. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that will make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients
Shrimp
For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are thawed if using frozen. The shrimp adds protein and a delightful seafood flavor that is essential for the scampi.
Pasta
Use 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti for the base of your dish. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it maintains its texture during baking. The choice of pasta complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Garlic
You will require 4 cloves of minced garlic for flavor. Garlic is crucial in scampi dishes, providing an aromatic base that enhances the overall taste profile of the bake.
Butter
Incorporate 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter into the recipe. The butter not only helps sauté the garlic but also adds creaminess to the sauce, creating a luscious texture for the dish.
Heavy Cream
Use 1 cup of heavy cream to achieve a rich and creamy consistency. Heavy cream lends body to the sauce while balancing out the flavors from the other ingredients.
Parmesan Cheese
Include 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for topping and mixing into the dish. Parmesan brings a salty depth and enhances the fusion of flavors in your baked pasta.
Seasonings
Gather 1 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper along with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. These seasonings provide balance and enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Fresh Parsley
Finally, use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley as a garnish. Parsley adds brightness to the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it more appealing when served.