Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta to create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings together the best of classic shrimp scampi and the heartiness of a baked pasta dish, making it an irresistible choice for weeknights or special occasions.

I first made this dish on a whim when I had some leftover shrimp and pasta, and it instantly became a household favorite. The flavors meld together beautifully as the dish bakes, and the crispy, golden topping adds just the right amount of texture. If you're looking for a dish that's easy, indulgent, and sure to impress, this is it!

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to add this dish to your regular rotation! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:

First, it’s quick and easy. While it looks like a fancy restaurant-quality dish, it comes together in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Second, it’s packed with flavor. From the garlicky, buttery sauce to the hint of lemon and the rich Parmesan topping, every bite is bursting with taste.

Another plus? It’s family-friendly. Even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy, cheesy pasta bake loaded with tender shrimp.

Lastly, it’s versatile. You can swap out the shrimp for chicken, add extra veggies, or experiment with different types of pasta. This recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in making this dish shine.

Pasta: I recommend using penne, rigatoni, or ziti for this bake. These shapes hold up well to the sauce and provide a great texture. If you prefer a lighter option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well too.

Shrimp: Opt for medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Garlic and Butter: The heart of classic shrimp scampi! Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, while butter adds richness. A mix of butter and olive oil helps balance the richness.

Lemon Juice and Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese. The zest adds an extra punch of citrus flavor.

Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, while mozzarella gives the dish its gooey, melty goodness. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top creates a crispy crust when baked.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is easier than you might think. Let’s go step by step!

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a large baking dish. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente – it will continue cooking in the oven.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink, then remove from the pan.

Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Let it simmer for a minute before removing from heat.

Combine the drained pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a mixing bowl. Toss everything together, then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs over the top for that perfect crispy finish.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well for easy reheating.

For refrigeration, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions with a splash of water to prevent dryness.

For freezing, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations and Substitutions

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is super adaptable! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Try cooked chicken, crab, or even a mix of seafood for a different twist.
• Add vegetables: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus make great additions to boost the nutrition and flavor.
• Use a different cheese: Try Gruyère or Asiago for a unique taste instead of mozzarella.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Go low-carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter alternative.

This recipe is the perfect canvas for experimenting, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

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