Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta all coming together in one delicious dish. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes the classic flavors of shrimp scampi and transforms them into a hearty, cheesy, and comforting casserole that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

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The first time I made this dish, I was looking for a way to stretch a simple shrimp dinner into a meal that could feed the whole family. By adding pasta, a luscious sauce, and a golden-baked topping, it quickly became a new favorite in our household. Now, it’s a go-to recipe whenever I want something impressive yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to enjoy a pasta bake that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to make, making it a must-try for shrimp lovers.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and quick it is. You can have everything prepped and in the oven in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or entertaining guests, this pasta bake has that restaurant-quality taste that impresses everyone. The combination of buttery shrimp, garlic, and cheese is a surefire hit.

This recipe is budget-friendly too. Shrimp scampi on its own can be pricey for a full meal, but stretching it with pasta and a homemade sauce makes it more economical while still tasting luxurious.

Lastly, it’s a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble it earlier in the day and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time for dinner. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from fresh, high-quality ingredients that work together to create an irresistible flavor.

Shrimp is the star of this recipe. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta acts as the perfect base for this dish. Linguine, fettuccine, or penne work beautifully because they hold the sauce well. If you prefer a lighter dish, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

Garlic and Butter are what give shrimp scampi its signature flavor. Using fresh garlic is key—minced garlic sautéed in butter creates that rich, aromatic base that makes this dish so delicious.

White Wine and Lemon Juice add brightness and depth to the sauce. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is best, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute with chicken broth and extra lemon juice.

Cheese takes this dish to the next level. A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates the perfect cheesy topping. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the shrimp.

For the best results, a baking dish that allows the pasta to spread evenly is ideal. A 9x13-inch casserole dish works perfectly, ensuring the cheese gets golden and bubbly on top.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish comes together in just a few easy steps, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering baked pasta dish.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven later. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. Stir in lemon juice, followed by the cooked pasta, tossing everything together to coat the noodles in the flavorful sauce. Add in the shrimp, mixing until evenly distributed.

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a golden, crispy topping, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Options

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating is easy—simply warm individual portions in the microwave, or place the whole dish in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If it looks dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

To make it creamier, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese before adding the pasta to the baking dish. This creates a richer, more indulgent sauce.

If you want a lighter version, use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta to cut down on carbs while keeping the dish delicious.

For extra protein, try adding scallops or cooked chicken along with the shrimp. This makes the dish even heartier while keeping the classic scampi flavors.

A breadcrumb topping can add extra crunch. Before baking, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the cheese for a crispy golden crust.

No matter how you make it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is bound to become a favorite in your home. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this delicious, comforting dish again and again!

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