If you love shrimp scampi and cheesy baked pasta, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is going to be your new obsession! 🍤🧄🧀 Imagine perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a buttery garlic lemon sauce, loaded with juicy shrimp, and baked with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish. The best part? It’s super easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal!
This dish takes the classic shrimp scampi and turns it into a hearty casserole-style bake, making it even more satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine work best)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- ½ cup (125ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Bake
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup (125ml) chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This easy baked shrimp scampi pasta is ready in just a few simple steps!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
- Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the sauce, tossing everything to coat.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Make it Healthier
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream.
- Reduce cheese for a lighter version.
Switch the Protein
- Instead of shrimp, try chicken, salmon, or scallops.
- Make it vegetarian by using mushrooms or zucchini instead of shrimp.
Change Up the Cheese
- Add Gruyère or fontina for extra creaminess.
- Love spice? Try adding pepper jack cheese!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What pasta works best for this bake?
Short pasta like penne, ziti, or rigatoni holds the sauce best.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
3. Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely! Substitute with chicken broth for great flavor.
4. Is this dish very spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can leave them out for a milder dish.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese.
6. What can I serve with this pasta bake?
- Garlic bread 🥖
- A crisp green salad 🥗
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli 🥦
7. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
8. How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer for a few extra minutes, or add more Parmesan cheese.
9. Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely! Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes a classic garlic butter shrimp pasta and transforms it into a cheesy, oven-baked masterpiece. With tender shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is pure comfort food—but still elegant enough for a special occasion.
It’s quick, easy, and insanely delicious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests. Try it today, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new family favorite!
🔥 Craving more shrimp recipes? Check out Garlic Butter Shrimp or Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta for more seafood goodness!