If you’ve ever wished classic shrimp scampi could be just a bit more cozy and comforting for a crowd, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is going to become your new favorite. It marries everything you love about garlicky, buttery shrimp with tender noodles, all smothered in melted cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy, foolproof dinner that’s positively bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or making guests feel special. The result is irresistible—a salty, savory, cheesy pasta casserole that’s pure comfort in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake relies on a handful of simple, but essential ingredients. Each one layers in a crucial element—bright freshness, creaminess, tang, or a touch of spice—that all add up to deliciously balanced results.
- Pasta (12 oz linguine or spaghetti): Use your favorite long pasta shape as the base; it soaks up all the buttery sauce beautifully.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Large shrimp give this bake a satisfying, meaty texture—fresh or thawed from frozen both work well.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): The foundation for flavor—use good olive oil for a subtle richness.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Classic scampi flavor comes from plenty of melted butter.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced): Don’t hold back here; garlic is essential for that unmistakable scampi aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch brings lively heat without overpowering the dish.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds wonderful depth and tang—choose wine for tradition, or broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and lifts the entire dish with fresh flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for rounding out all those savory notes.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A few twists complete the seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds herby color and a gentle, grassy kick to the final flavor profile.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into gooey perfection over the pasta and shrimp.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Sharp, salty, and deeply savory—just what a pasta bake needs.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Makes sure cleanup is easy, and nothing sticks to your baking dish.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and getting your baking dish ready with a light coat of nonstick spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente. You want it with a teeny bit of bite, since it’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain it well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and half the butter. Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes and let them bloom for a minute, until they’re fragrant but not brown—this is where those scampi flavors start to shine. Add the shrimp in a single layer and let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes a side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Scoop the shrimp out onto a plate so they don’t overcook.
Step 3: Deglaze and Make the Sauce
With all the flavorful bits still in the skillet, splash in your wine or broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up anything stuck to the bottom, letting the liquid reduce for a minute. Stir in the lemon juice, remaining butter, salt, and pepper, making sure everything fuses into a glossy, bright sauce.
Step 4: Toss the Pasta and Parsley
Add the drained linguine or spaghetti directly into the skillet with the scampi sauce, along with the chopped parsley. Using tongs, toss everything to coat—this is where your pasta soaks up every last drop of flavor.
Step 5: Layer the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Now it’s time to build your bake. Spread half the pasta into the prepared baking dish, then scatter half the cooked shrimp and half the shredded mozzarella over the surface. Layer on the remaining pasta, top with the rest of the shrimp and mozzarella, and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn a luscious golden brown on top. Serve warm, with extra parsley if you like, and get ready for lots of “wow, what’s in this?” moments around your table.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an absolute must for sprinkling on top just before serving—it adds a burst of color and a pop of herby flavor right at the end. For a special touch, try a squeeze of extra lemon juice over the hot bake, or dust with a bit more Parmesan for extra richness. Toasted breadcrumbs are fun if you want a bit of crunch!
Side Dishes
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake plays well with simple sides—a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, some garlic bread for mopping up sauce, or steamed broccoli brighten up the plate. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach are also great to balance out the richness of the pasta and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, try baking the dish in individual ramekins for a restaurant-style touch, or spiral your pasta into pretty nests before layering with shrimp and cheese. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a tiny drizzle of herbed olive oil right before serving can elevate and personalize the presentation. For a buffet or potluck, keep the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a warming dish for help-yourself ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a perk of this recipe! Let the pasta bake cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or an easy leftover dinner.
Freezing
You can assemble the complete Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in your baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Baked leftovers can also be frozen, though the pasta may be a bit softer when reheated.
Reheating
For best results, reheat portions in a 350°F oven, covered with foil until hot (about 15–20 minutes). You can also microwave individual servings, but add a splash of broth or water so the pasta doesn’t dry out. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley wakes everything back up before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking—frozen shrimp are actually a weeknight lifesaver and work perfectly in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.
What type Main Course
Linguine or spaghetti are classic and ideal for holding onto the sauce, but you can use any long pasta you like. Even gluten-free pasta or a fun shape like fusilli will work in a pinch.
Is there a substitute for white wine?
Yes, chicken broth is a great swap for white wine if you’d prefer to keep it alcohol-free. The flavor will still be delicious and bright.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble everything a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake when you’re ready to serve—add a couple of extra minutes to account for the colder starting temperature.
What can I do to make it extra creamy?
For a bit of added indulgence, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream with the sauce before assembling the bake. It’ll give the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a luxurious richness and perfectly silky texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort food with a fresh, coastal flair, give this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a spot on your dinner table. It bakes up bubbly, golden, and absolutely packed with flavor—and it couldn’t be easier to pull together. Grab your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that feels both familiar and restaurant-worthy. You’re in for a real treat!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, a delicious twist on a classic dish that combines succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil and butter. Cook shrimp, then set aside. Deglaze the skillet with wine or broth. Add lemon juice, butter, salt, and pepper. Toss in pasta and parsley.
- Assemble the dish: Layer pasta, shrimp, and mozzarella in the baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before baking.
- You can substitute gluten-free pasta or precooked frozen shrimp for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
