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 tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, buttery garlic sauce, all baked together under a golden, cheesy crust. It’s comfort food with a gourmet touch!

I first made this recipe when I needed an easy yet impressive meal for a family gathering. It quickly became a staple in our home, loved for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe will not disappoint.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to seafood pasta dish. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is more than just delicious – it's a lifesaver on busy nights!

First off, it’s quick and easy to make. With just 15 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time.

Next, it’s budget-friendly. Shrimp can be pricey, but this recipe stretches a small amount over a hearty pasta dish, making it an affordable way to enjoy seafood at home.

Not to mention, it’s crowd-pleasing. The combination of buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and melted cheese is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

Finally, it’s versatile. You can switch up the pasta, add more veggies, or tweak the cheese blend to suit your preferences. No matter how you make it, this dish is bound to impress!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Pasta is the foundation of this dish. I recommend using penne or rigatoni, as their shape holds onto the garlicky, buttery sauce beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works just as well.

Shrimp is the star of the show. I like to use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works too—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Garlic and butter create the signature scampi flavor. Freshly minced garlic and high-quality butter make all the difference. The rich, aromatic sauce is what makes this dish irresistible!

Parmesan and mozzarella cheese provide the perfect balance of sharpness and gooey meltiness. Parmesan adds depth to the sauce, while mozzarella creates that crave-worthy cheesy topping when baked.

You'll also need chicken broth and lemon juice to enhance the sauce, giving it a bright and savory flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish every time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Since it will finish cooking in the oven, you don’t want it to be too soft at this stage. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, then add the shrimp. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink—about 2 minutes per side—then remove from heat to avoid overcooking.

Next, deglaze the pan with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. This creates a rich, flavorful sauce that ties everything together.

Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a baking dish, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully for easy meals later.

If refrigerating, place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize!

For a healthier twist, swap regular pasta for whole wheat or zucchini noodles. You’ll still get the same delicious flavors with fewer carbs.

Want to make it extra creamy? Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before baking for a richer, silkier texture.

If you’re a fan of spice, try using Cajun seasoning instead of red pepper flakes. It adds a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

For a meatless option, swap the shrimp for mushrooms or artichoke hearts. The garlicky, cheesy goodness will still shine through!

However you decide to make it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making it your own!

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