Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed Dish

A Comforting Twist on Classic Shrimp Scampi

Imagine twirling a forkful of buttery, garlicky pasta with tender shrimp, coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection. That’s exactly what you get with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—a dish that combines the bold flavors of traditional shrimp scampi with the comforting richness of a baked pasta casserole.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or special occasions when you want something indulgent but easy to prepare. The best part? It comes together in under an hour, with minimal prep and maximum flavor!

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta, succulent shrimp, and a golden, cheesy topping, you’ll absolutely love this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Creamy: A decadent sauce made with butter, garlic, and heavy cream.
✔ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
✔ Cheesy & Comforting: Loaded with Parmesan and mozzarella for a perfect baked finish.
✔ Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and bake when ready.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make this delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

Category	Ingredient	Amount
Pasta	Linguine or spaghetti	12 oz
Protein	Large shrimp, peeled and deveined	1 lb
Sauce	Butter	4 tbsp
	Garlic, minced	4 cloves
	Red pepper flakes	¼ tsp
	White wine or chicken broth	½ cup
	Lemon juice and zest	1 lemon
	Heavy cream	1 cup
	Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup
Topping	Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 cup
	Salt and pepper	To taste
	Fresh parsley, chopped	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the linguine or spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
• Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Stir in the red pepper flakes, then pour in the white wine (or chicken broth).
• Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
• Add the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream, stirring until well combined.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
• Toss in the drained pasta and mix well until everything is coated in the sauce.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.

5. Assemble the Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer the shrimp and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy topping.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
• Serve hot and enjoy your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake!

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

✔ Use Fresh Shrimp

Fresh shrimp adds the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp works well too—just thaw it properly before cooking.

✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since the pasta will bake in the oven, slightly undercook it when boiling to prevent mushy noodles.

✔ Adjust the Spice Level

For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch more!

✔ Add Extra Cheese

Love cheese? Try mixing grated Pecorino Romano with the mozzarella for even more flavor.

✔ Use High-Quality Wine

If using white wine, choose a dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best taste.

What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:

🥖 Bread & Appetizers

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Bruschetta – A fresh contrast to the rich pasta.

🥗 Salads & Vegetables

• Caesar Salad – A classic pairing with pasta.
• Roasted Asparagus – Adds a light, crunchy element.

🍷 Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the shrimp.
• Red Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir works surprisingly well!

Healthier Substitutions

Want a lighter version of this dish? Try these swaps:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta – More fiber and nutrients.
• Replace Heavy Cream with Greek Yogurt – Still creamy, but lower in fat.
• Opt for Low-Fat Cheese – Reduces calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Use Zucchini Noodles – A great low-carb alternative!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly—watch closely to prevent it from turning rubbery.

❌ Skipping the Lemon Zest

The zest adds a fresh, citrusy kick that enhances the sauce’s flavor.

❌ Using Pre-Grated Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer taste.

❌ Not Letting the Pasta Rest

Letting the baked pasta sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and flavors settle.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pasta bake and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

3. What if I don’t have white wine?

Use chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Try penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness, with tender shrimp and a hint of spice. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

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