Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings together everything people love about classic shrimp scampi and creamy baked pasta in one easy recipe. With tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, bright lemon, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
If you love easy dinner recipes that feel indulgent without being complicated, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. It is made with simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and bakes into a bubbly, golden casserole that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining.
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes the traditional stovetop scampi and transforms it into a satisfying oven-baked meal that feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully. It is rich without being heavy, fresh thanks to lemon and parsley, and comforting in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is beginner-friendly and easy to follow, even if you do not cook seafood often. It comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The recipe uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients that deliver restaurant-quality flavor. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners, gatherings, and special occasions. This dish is also customizable and can be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and garlicky shrimp, this baked pasta recipe is one that everyone asks for again.
About the Ingredients
Shrimp are the star of this dish. Large shrimp work best because they stay juicy and tender when baked. Using peeled and deveined shrimp saves time and ensures a smooth eating experience.
Pasta such as linguine or spaghetti provides the base of the bake. These long noodles hold the sauce well and create a classic scampi texture. Cooking the pasta until just al dente is essential so it does not become mushy during baking.
Butter adds richness and forms the foundation of the scampi sauce. Combined with garlic, it creates that unmistakable savory aroma that defines classic shrimp scampi.
Garlic is essential for authentic flavor. Fresh minced garlic delivers bold taste and depth.
Red pepper flakes add subtle heat and balance the richness of the cream and cheese without overpowering the dish.
White wine or chicken broth deglazes the pan and adds brightness. Either option works well, depending on preference.
Lemon juice and zest bring freshness and cut through the creamy sauce, keeping the dish balanced and vibrant.
Heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture and helps bind the pasta and shrimp together.
Parmesan cheese adds nutty depth and enhances the savory flavors, while mozzarella creates a gooey, golden topping that melts beautifully.
Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh finish that lightens the dish.
Tips & Tricks
Always cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Avoid overcooking the shrimp on the stovetop, as they will bake again briefly. Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting and better flavor. Zest the lemon before juicing it for maximum citrus aroma. Lightly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
These simple baking tips help ensure a perfectly creamy and flavorful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake every time.
Pro Tips
For extra flavor, use shrimp shells to make a quick broth if you are skipping wine. Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken before combining with pasta. For a golden, bubbly top, broil the dish for the last one to two minutes, watching closely. Add a splash of pasta cooking water if the sauce seems too thick before baking. Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven so the sauce sets slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for three to four minutes, turning once, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for two minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Reduce heat slightly and simmer until warmed through.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in the prepared baking dish, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Add spinach or asparagus for extra vegetables and color. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Make it spicy by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and check cheese labels carefully.
These easy dessert-style twists allow you to customize Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake to suit your preferences.
How to Store Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Store leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or broth if the pasta appears dry. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
For freezer-friendly meals, assemble the bake without the mozzarella topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add cheese, and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to one day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them only at the end to prevent overcooking.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Linguine and spaghetti work best, but penne or fettuccine also work well.
Can I skip the wine?
Yes, chicken broth is an excellent substitute.
How do I keep shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Do not overcook them on the stovetop and bake only until heated through.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour white wine (or broth) into the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a baking dish. Mix gently to coat.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
