Name: The Best Crispy Fried Chicken You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, skin-on for best flavor); 1 cup Buttermilk (For marinating the chicken); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For dredging the chicken); 1 teaspoon Paprika (For flavor); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (For seasoning); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (For seasoning); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional for heat); 3 cups Vegetable Oil (For frying)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the aroma of crispy fried chicken starts wafting through the air. It reminds me of weekend family gatherings, where laughter and love are served up alongside perfectly golden, crunchy chicken. After all, chicken fried to perfection is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that brings us together.

I remember the first time I experimented with my own seasoning blend, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into an unforgettable feast. This Crispy Fried Chicken recipe is born from that adventurous spirit, marrying succulent chicken with a crispy coating that’s nothing short of addictive. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a comforting bite that rivals restaurant offerings, this dish promises to deliver.

Best of all, it’s easier to whip up than you might think! With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can serve up a plate that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into frying chicken that you and your loved ones will savor time and time again! 🍗

Why will you love Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Delicious, creamy comfort: This pasta bake envelops sweet shrimp in a rich, cheesy sauce that wraps around tender pasta, making every bite a soothing experience.

Quick and simple: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip this dish up in just a few steps, ensuring dinner is ready in no time.

Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with its irresistible flavors—everyone will be going back for seconds!

Versatile options: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or veggies to cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Easily make-ahead: Prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to pop it in the oven for a hassle-free meal.

This scrumptious dish perfectly complements a light salad, like a Hearty Homemade Chicken or enjoy it by itself for a savory treat!

Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Ingredients

Prepare yourself for a flavor-filled journey with this delightful dish!

For the Pasta and Shrimp
• Shrimp – Provides essential protein and a succulent flavor; ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy eating.
• Pasta – This dish shines with short pasta like penne or rotini for the perfect bite-sized pieces.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; adjust the quantity based on your preference for that robust flavor.
• Cream Cheese – This is the key to a smooth, creamy texture that binds the ingredients together deliciously.
• Butter – Enhances richness and flavor while sautéing the shrimp; consider olive oil for a lighter option.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella/Parmesan) – Provides that irresistible bubbly cheese topping; feel free to swap in your favorite melting cheese for variety.

Seasonings
• Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes – Elevate the dish with this seasoning trio; adjust to your spice tolerance for a custom flavor boost.
• Parsley – Adds a fresh garnish and vibrant color; you may replace it with chives if desired.

Prepare these ingredients to create your own Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake that will have everyone asking for more!

How to Make Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your pasta bake.
Cook pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; then drain it and set aside. This ensures your pasta retains just the right amount of bite!
Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Your kitchen will smell delightful!
Cook shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This ensures your shrimp are tender and packed with flavor.
Mix cream cheese: Stir in the cream cheese, mixing well until it’s fully integrated with the shrimp. Next, add the cooked pasta and combine until everything is evenly coated in that creamy goodness.
Combine flavors: Add half of the shredded cheese, along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. This is where the magic truly begins—mix until everything is well combined!
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the creamy pasta and shrimp mixture into a prepared baking dish, then top it with the remaining shredded cheese.
Bake: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Your patience will be rewarded!
Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of vibrant color and freshness to your dish!

Optional: Serve with a side of crisp green salad to complement the richness of the bake.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

To elevate your meal experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement the flavors of your pasta bake.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly will balance the richness of the pasta, providing a fresh crunch.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side. Its crispy texture and buttery flavor echo the dish’s garlic notes beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers introduce an earthy sweetness, making your meal colorful and nutritious.

The contrast of textures between crunchy veggies and creamy pasta lends a satisfying harmony to your dining experience.

White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the shrimp’s flavor, adding a touch of elegance to your dinner.
Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with herbs brings a lightness to the meal, soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These delightful biscuits not only pair well in flavors but also add a warm, comforting sidekick to each bite.

Feel free to mix and match for a complete, satisfying spread that will leave everyone at your table raving!

How to Store and Freeze Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven until warm throughout for the best texture.

Freezer: If you want to freeze your pasta bake, do so before baking; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: To reheat baked pasta, cover with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through, ensuring the cheesy topping remains melty.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the cheesy shrimp scampi pasta bake ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner solution!

Expert Tips for Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to maintain tenderness; overcooking can lead to chewy shrimp in your pasta bake.
Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk while mixing the shrimp and pasta for a delightful mouthfeel.
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and Parmesan are fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with Gruyère or Gouda for unique flavors in your cheesy shrimp scampi bake.
Avoid Soggy Pasta: Do not overcook your pasta when boiling; aim for al dente so it retains its texture during baking.
Utilize the Broiler: For a perfectly golden top layer, turn the broiler on for the last few minutes of baking. Just watch closely to prevent burning!
Ingredient Prep: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before starting; this streamlines the process and makes assembling the shrimp scampi pasta bake a breeze.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful tweaks for a unique twist!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with cooked, diced chicken for a heartier alternative that still shines in creamy flavors.
Veggie Delight: Use sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach instead of shrimp for a vibrant and nutritious vegetarian option.
Whole Grain: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to boost nutrition while still enjoying that comforting bake.
Cheese Mix: Experiment with different cheeses! Try feta for tang or a mix of Gruyère and cheddar for a richer flavor profile.
Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick that elevates every bite.
Creamy Addition: For an extra indulgent touch, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for a silkier sauce that enchants the taste buds.
No Butter: Substitute olive oil for butter to lighten the dish while retaining that delicious sautéing flavor.
Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh basil or dill to add a fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it before baking. Simply mix your shrimp, pasta, and creamy sauce as directed, but hold off on adding the cheese topping until you’re ready to bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. When it’s time to serve, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and pop it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure they are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor, but frozen is a great alternative for convenience. If using frozen shrimp, I suggest thawing them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best texture.

How can I store leftovers of the pasta bake?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, ensuring the cheesy topping remains deliciously melty.

Can I freeze the Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, it’s best to wrap the unbaked pasta bake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This ensures your dish remains flavorful and creamy!

What if my pasta is too soggy after baking?
If you find your pasta is a bit soggy, this usually means it was overcooked during the initial boiling phase. Aim for al dente pasta when boiling, which means it should still have a slightly firm bite. This helps it retain its shape through the baking process for that perfect texture.

Are there any alternatives for cheese if I’m looking for something lighter?
Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a low-fat version or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist without sacrificing richness. For the shredded cheese, consider using low-fat mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese blend to cater to different dietary preferences while still enjoying that fabulous cheesiness.

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to pop it in the oven. This is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights and have a comforting meal ready to enjoy!

Print Recipe