Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of succulent shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes everything you love about the classic dish and transforms it into a cozy, cheesy casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I first made this dish when I wanted to stretch a simple shrimp scampi into a heartier meal for my family. Adding pasta and a blanket of golden, bubbly cheese turned it into an instant favorite. Now, it’s a go-to comfort meal that never disappoints.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with this rich and satisfying pasta bake. It’s everything you love about shrimp scampi, with a baked, cheesy twist!

First, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish on your table in no time.

It's also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving dinner to your family or hosting friends, this recipe makes plenty to go around, and the leftovers are just as delicious.

And let’s not forget about the flavor. The garlicky butter sauce, zesty lemon, and juicy shrimp create an irresistible combination that’s only enhanced by the crispy, cheesy topping.

Best of all, this dish is versatile. Swap out the pasta, use different cheeses, or add extra veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes from its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating bold, comforting flavors.

Shrimp is the star of this dish, so opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh is always great, but frozen shrimp works just as well—just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Pasta serves as the base, soaking up all the buttery, garlicky goodness. I recommend penne or rigatoni because their sturdy shapes hold up well in a baked dish and allow the sauce to cling to every bite.

Garlic and butter are essential for that classic scampi flavor. Freshly minced garlic is best, and unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning.

Lemon juice and white wine bring brightness to balance the richness of the butter and cheese. If you prefer to cook without wine, substitute it with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

Finally, cheese takes this dish to the next level. A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates the perfect melty, golden crust on top.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Start by cooking the pasta until just al dente. Since it will continue baking in the oven, you want it slightly undercooked to avoid mushiness. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Stir in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, letting the sauce simmer for a minute to develop flavor.

Next, toss in the shrimp and cook just until they turn pink—about 2 minutes per side. You don’t want to overcook them since they’ll bake further in the oven. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, stir in the heavy cream and a bit of Parmesan cheese, letting it thicken slightly. Then, combine the sauce with the cooked pasta and shrimp, mixing everything together evenly.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—then dig in and enjoy!

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores beautifully.

For short-term storage, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

For the best reheating results, warm individual portions in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. You can also microwave it, but adding a splash of broth or cream will help keep the pasta from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Want a lighter version? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a less rich, yet still delicious, sauce.

Not a fan of white wine? No problem! Use chicken broth instead—it adds great flavor without the alcohol.

Looking to add some veggies? Stir in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers before baking for an extra burst of color and nutrition.

Prefer a different cheese combo? Try Gruyere for a more complex flavor, or add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

However you make it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a guaranteed hit. Get creative and enjoy a dish that’s as flexible as it is delicious!

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