This Shrimp Scampi Bake is a fun and tasty dish! It combines tender shrimp, garlic, and buttery goodness all baked together with a sprinkle of cheese. Yum!
I love how easy this bake is to make. Just mix everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the delicious smell while it cooks. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp give the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works just fine. Just make sure they’re thawed before cooking! If you prefer, you can also use scallops or diced chicken as a substitute.
Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta cooks quickly and holds the sauce well. If you’d like a healthier option, swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Spaghetti or fettuccine are also great alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a wonderful flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can use garlic powder (1 teaspoon per clove). Roasted garlic can also enhance the dish with a sweeter flavor.
Butter and Olive Oil: The combo of butter and olive oil creates a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, substitute with avocado oil or reduce the butter amount and use more olive oil.
White Wine: The wine adds depth to the dish, but you can easily replace it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option, or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp correctly is key to a great dish. You want them juicy and tender, not tough and rubbery. Follow these steps:
- Heat the oven to the right temperature (375°F) before baking.
- Arrange the shrimp evenly on top of the pasta to ensure even cooking.
- Bake until the shrimp are pink and opaque, which usually takes 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as overcooking can happen quickly.
Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows the shrimp’s juices to settle, keeping them flavorful!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Scampi Bake takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time, making it a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty weekend treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven will be nice and hot when the dish is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Next, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. This usually takes just a few minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and zest. If you like a bit of heat, add in the red pepper flakes, along with some salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta into the bowl with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the flavorful mix.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. Now, place the shrimp on top of the pasta in an even layer.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley and panko breadcrumbs over the shrimp and pasta for a delicious crunchy topping. If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to add some grated Parmesan on top!
7. Bake!
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty Shrimp Scampi Bake!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Angel Hair Pasta?
If you’re not a fan of angel hair pasta, you can substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble and bake as directed. This way, you have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!