There’s something undeniably comforting about a baked pasta dish. The golden, bubbling cheese, the warm aroma filling the kitchen, and the idea of a hearty, satisfying meal—it all comes together perfectly in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Combining the elegance of shrimp scampi with the cozy comfort of a baked pasta casserole, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
The idea for this recipe came to me on a chilly evening when I was craving the garlicky, buttery flavors of shrimp scampi but wanted something more filling, something that would be hearty enough for a cozy dinner. So, I thought, “Why not combine everything I love about shrimp scampi—the garlic, the butter, the zesty lemon, and the succulent shrimp—with the rich, comforting layers of a pasta bake?”
Since then, this dish has become a household favorite. Tender shrimp are sautéed in a flavorful garlic-butter sauce, then combined with al dente pasta and smothered in a creamy, lemon-infused sauce. The mixture is topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese before being baked to golden perfection. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, fancy yet easy to make.
Why This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a Must-Try
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party or throwing it together on a busy weeknight, this dish can be made ahead of time or prepared on the spot. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving guests or treating your family to something special. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels both satisfying and sophisticated.
The combination of shrimp, garlic, and butter is enough to make anyone’s taste buds dance, but the addition of lemon adds a bright and refreshing zing that balances the richness. And the best part? The cheesy topping. The mozzarella and Parmesan melt together, creating a golden, gooey crust that adds a delightful texture to each bite.
What I love most about this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is how well the flavors come together. The shrimp absorbs the garlic and butter, while the creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully. The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness, making each mouthful feel light yet indulgent. And let’s not forget the crispy, cheesy topping—it’s the perfect finish to this cozy, flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Packed with Flavor: The juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and a hint of lemon make for an irresistible combination.
- Cheesy Goodness: The golden, bubbly cheese adds the perfect amount of comfort to every bite.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap out the pasta for a healthier option, or tweak the flavors to suit your taste—it’s versatile and always delicious!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a family meal, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Linguine or Spaghetti: Choose your favorite type of long pasta as the base.
- Large Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience and texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced for bold aromatic flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A subtle hint of spice to enhance the dish.
- White Wine or Chicken Broth: To deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce.
- Lemon: Both juice and zest for a refreshing citrusy kick.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a salty, nutty flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded for a gooey, melty topping.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a bright, herby garnish.
How to Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Pour the white wine into the skillet, letting it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top, then sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the pasta and shrimp.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Try chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a unique twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a lighter dish.
- Cheese Choices: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add extra mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Herb Alternatives: Basil or dill can replace parsley for a fresh flavor variation.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
- Wine-Free Version: Substitute white wine with chicken broth or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal, this recipe will surely impress. The combination of shrimp, garlic, lemon, and creamy pasta, topped with golden melted cheese, is a perfect way to elevate any meal. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, sophisticated yet comforting. Enjoy it with your loved ones and create lasting memories around the table!