Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

The Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious blend of everything you crave in a hearty meal, tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, nestled in al dente pasta, then baked with a rich, lemon-infused cream sauce. Topped with melty mozzarella and crispy golden breadcrumbs, it’s comfort food elevated with fresh, bright flavors.

Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this baked pasta dish takes classic shrimp scampi to a whole new level. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and comes together with just a few simple steps. Serve it with a crisp side salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, deglaze with white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer for 2 minutes.

6. Add lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Let simmer for 2 more minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.

7. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir in cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat evenly.

8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and breadcrumbs on top.

9. Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 490 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite

When it comes to combining comfort food with a touch of elegance, few dishes strike the perfect balance like a Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Inspired by the beloved shrimp scampi served in Italian-American kitchens, this baked version transforms the traditionally skillet-prepared dish into a cozy, oven-baked meal. Featuring plump, juicy shrimp, garlicky lemon-butter sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is everything you want in a family dinner, decadent, easy, and crowd-pleasing.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a make-ahead option for entertaining, or simply craving something indulgent, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a recipe that delivers every time. Let’s dive into what makes this dish special, its key ingredients, possible substitutions, storage tips, and creative variations.

Why This Recipe Works

The traditional shrimp scampi is fast and flavorful, shrimp cooked in a garlicky lemon-butter sauce, usually served over pasta. While delicious, the stovetop version requires timing and immediate serving for best results. This baked version simplifies that process and adds creamy elements and crispy toppings that take the comfort level up a notch.

The shrimp are first sautéed in olive oil and butter with plenty of garlic and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. After being set aside, the same pan is used to create a quick cream sauce by deglazing with white wine (or chicken broth), adding lemon juice and zest, and finishing with Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Tossing the shrimp and pasta in this sauce ensures every bite is infused with flavor. Finally, a cheesy topping of mozzarella and crunchy breadcrumbs bakes into a golden crust that seals the deal.

Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

Let’s break down the components that make this dish irresistible:

1. Shrimp

The star of the dish: large, peeled, and deveined shrimp, provides a meaty, briny bite. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp can be used. Tail-on shrimp make for a beautiful presentation but can be less convenient when serving.

2. Pasta

Linguine, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne work well. Long noodles help trap the sauce while offering a traditional texture. Shorter pasta shapes are great for easier scooping when serving from a casserole dish.

3. Garlic and Olive Oil

A classic combo for shrimp scampi, these provide the aromatic base for the dish. Garlic adds depth, while olive oil ensures smooth sautéing.

4. White Wine or Chicken Broth

This acidic element deglazes the pan and builds a bright, zesty flavor. White wine offers richness, while broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative.

5. Lemon Juice and Zest

Lemon is essential in scampi, cutting through the richness of the butter and cream and enhancing the freshness of the shrimp.

6. Heavy Cream and Parmesan

Together, they turn the traditional scampi sauce into a creamy, luscious delight. The Parmesan adds nuttiness and a slight sharpness.

7. Mozzarella and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkled on top before baking, mozzarella melts into gooey goodness while breadcrumbs toast up into a golden crust. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for that extra crunch.

8. Fresh Parsley

Herbaceous and bright, parsley finishes the dish with color and a touch of earthiness.

Variations to Try

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is very adaptable. Here are a few fun variations:

• Add Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or asparagus can be added for extra nutrition and color.

• Swap Proteins: Not a fan of shrimp? Substitute with cooked chicken breast, scallops, or even salmon chunks.

• Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with more red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs without sacrificing flavor.

• Lighten It Up: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter dish.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Sauté just until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.

• Undercook Pasta Slightly: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, drain it while it’s still a bit firm (al dente).

• Use Fresh Garlic and Lemon: Pre-minced garlic and bottled lemon juice lack the vibrant flavor of fresh ingredients.

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated is always best.

• Broil the Top (Optional): For an extra crispy top, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking, just keep an eye on it!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake is rich and filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or crusty French bread

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans

• A chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

It also reheats well for leftovers, making it great for lunch the next day.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is excellent for meal prep or entertaining. Here’s how to store it:

• Make-Ahead: Assemble everything (except the mozzarella and breadcrumbs) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

• Freeze: Assemble the dish, let it cool completely, and freeze (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

• Reheat: Bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion

The Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a true fusion of elegance and indulgence. It combines the vibrant, fresh flavors of a classic seafood dish with the comfort of a cheesy baked pasta. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this dish is as reliable as it is impressive.

It brings together bold garlic, buttery shrimp, zesty lemon, creamy sauce, and a golden cheesy topping, all baked to perfection. What’s not to love?

If you’ve never tried baking your shrimp scampi before, this is your sign to elevate your dinner routine. It’s easy enough for a casual weeknight, yet rich enough to serve at any celebration. Pair it with your favorite side and you have a restaurant-worthy meal made right at home.

So go ahead—bring this creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness into your kitchen and savor every bite.