Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, garlicky aroma of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake filling your kitchen. This dish combines succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a buttery, lemon-infused sauce, all baked to perfection under a golden crust of cheese. It's a comforting yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

I first made this recipe when I wanted to transform classic shrimp scampi into a heartier dish that could feed a crowd. The result? A creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible pasta bake that quickly became a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta bake. This dish takes everything you love about shrimp scampi and elevates it into a rich, comforting casserole.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. While it looks and tastes impressive, this recipe comes together in just over 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also budget-friendly. Shrimp can be expensive, but by incorporating pasta and a homemade sauce, you can stretch a pound of shrimp into a full, hearty meal that serves the whole family.

If you’re a fan of cheesy, golden-topped casseroles, you’re in for a treat. The baked finish adds an irresistible texture, with melty mozzarella and Parmesan creating the perfect crispy topping.

Lastly, this dish is versatile. You can switch up the pasta, adjust the seasonings, or add vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes from its carefully chosen ingredients, each contributing to its bold and comforting flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the dish, so I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp for the best texture. Fresh shrimp is always ideal, but frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta serves as the hearty base, and I suggest using short pasta like penne or rigatoni. Their ridged surfaces hold onto the garlicky, buttery sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Garlic and lemon are essential to classic shrimp scampi flavor. The garlic infuses the butter with a rich aroma, while fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and sauce.

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create the creamy, indulgent sauce that coats every bite. The Parmesan adds a nutty depth, while the cream brings a velvety texture that makes this pasta bake ultra comforting.

For the perfect crispy, cheesy topping, a mix of mozzarella and breadcrumbs is key. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch.

You’ll also need a large baking dish and a skillet to bring everything together before baking it to golden perfection.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until just shy of al dente, since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, sauté the shrimp in a hot skillet with butter and minced garlic. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

In the same skillet, make the creamy scampi sauce by adding more butter, lemon juice, and a splash of white wine. Let it reduce slightly before stirring in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then toss in the cooked pasta and shrimp.

Transfer everything to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and breadcrumbs. This creates a golden, bubbly crust that makes every bite irresistible.

Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps the sauce thicken and ensures perfect, creamy bites.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine with this dish!), you can store them easily.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

To freeze, place portions in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. You’ll still get creaminess but with fewer calories.

Want to add veggies? Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.

If you’re out of shrimp, try using chicken or scallops instead. Both proteins pair beautifully with the garlicky, lemony sauce.

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative or crushed pork rinds.

Experiment and make it your own—the possibilities are endless!

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