Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you love shrimp and crave that irresistible garlicky, buttery flavor, then the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is exactly what you need for your next meal. This dish takes the classic shrimp scampi you know and love and transforms it into a cozy, cheesy bake that’s pure comfort food. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a creamy, lemony sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with bubbly golden mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make, perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step to nailing this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the succulent shrimp and tender pasta providing hearty texture, to the garlic and lemon juice giving the dish its signature zesty, savory punch, and the creamy cheeses adding luscious richness and color.

• 12 oz pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and provide the perfect bite.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Quick to cook, shrimp add that satisfying seafood sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps balance the garlic’s brightness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a fruity, smooth base for sautéing shrimp and garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The heart of the scampi flavor, bringing bold aroma and taste.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat that livens up the dish without overpowering it.
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Adds depth and a slight acidity to brighten the sauce.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Gives a fresh tang that cuts through the richness perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbal notes like oregano and basil into play.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, bubbly topping that everyone adores.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, sharp contrast that complements the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness at the end.
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly while maintaining flavor balance.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor and adds savory depth.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch adds warm, subtle complexity to the creamy sauce.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta just shy of al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directs. This is key because the pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the oven, soaking up all that delightful sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a pretty pink and are opaque throughout. Remove them from the pan and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until the aroma fills your kitchen. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice, making sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan bottom. Let this simmer gently for 2 minutes to marry the flavors and reduce slightly.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Now stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a dash of nutmeg if you like. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes more, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This creamy, fragrant sauce is what makes this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake irresistibly comforting and rich.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Return the shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet, folding everything together gently so each pasta piece is coated with that luscious sauce. Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top to create a glorious cheesy crust. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted to bubbly perfection with golden edges.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately while still warm, and prepare for the delighted smiles that will come with every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a lovely burst of green and a subtle herbal nuance that lightens up the plate visually and flavor-wise. For an extra pop, you can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon over each serving or scatter some toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Side Dishes

Pairing this shrimp scampi pasta bake with crisp, fresh sides creates a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Consider serving garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce, a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add freshness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the bake in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a charming, personalized touch. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or extra Parmesan at the table allows guests to customize the dish. You could also top with lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the flavors further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. For best results, use a freezer-safe container, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind the texture of the shrimp may slightly change after freezing, but the flavors will still be wonderful.

Reheating

To reheat, use the oven for the best texture—cover the dish with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until piping hot, although this might soften the cheese topping.

FAQs

What pasta works best for this bake?

Short pasta like penne, ziti, or rigatoni is ideal because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for white wine and still end up with a delicious, flavorful bake that everyone will enjoy.

Is this dish very spicy?

The red pepper flakes add just a mild kick that complements the garlic and lemon nicely. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a creamy, luscious but dairy-free version of the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines all the best parts of a comforting pasta dinner—succulent shrimp, creamy garlicky sauce, and melty cheese—in one easy and delightful dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers impressive flavor and cozy vibes in just over half an hour. Trust me, once you try it, this will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection. Grab those ingredients and dive into this fantastic bake—you won’t regret it!

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