Honestly, it's the sauce that takes this bake to the next level.

Baked shrimp scampi pasta is a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any family dinner. Originating from the classic Italian-American shrimp scampi, this version is baked to perfection, creating a creamy, gooey texture that everyone will love. It's perfect for those cozy nights when you want to treat your family to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This baked shrimp scampi pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. You might also consider serving it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A chilled glass of white wine for the adults and some sparkling water with a splash of lemon for the kids can round out the meal beautifully.

Servings: 4

12 oz linguine or spaghetti or pasta of choice
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Pour the wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. If you have picky eaters, consider using chicken instead of shrimp. You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.