Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the elegance of shrimp scampi with the comforting appeal of a cheesy pasta bake. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the best of both worlds—succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, buttery sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, and topped with a golden, bubbly layer of cheese.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s rich yet balanced, with bright notes of lemon cutting through the creamy sauce, and it’s easier to make than you might think. If you love seafood and pasta, this is a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of garlic, butter, shrimp, and cheese.
• Cheesy Goodness – A golden layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan adds depth.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in under an hour with simple, straightforward steps.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with ingredient swaps.
• Family-Friendly – A hit with both kids and adults.

Suitable For

• Occasions: Great for family dinners, meal prep, date nights, or gatherings.
• Dietary Needs: Adaptable for gluten-free, low-carb, or high-protein diets.
• Skill Level: Perfect for beginners—simple steps with impressive results.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Core Ingredients

• Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined for a tender bite.
• Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or ziti hold up well in a bake.
• Olive Oil & Butter: Essential for creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
• Garlic: The foundation of any good shrimp scampi.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a subtle heat.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Brings brightness and balances the richness.
• Chicken/Seafood Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor.
• Parmesan & Mozzarella Cheese: A combination that melts beautifully.
• Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Substitutions and Tips

• Pasta: Swap for whole wheat or gluten-free options.
• Cheese: Gruyère or Pecorino Romano can add a different depth of flavor.
• Protein: Chicken or scallops can replace shrimp.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

• Large pot – For cooking pasta.
• Skillet – To make the scampi sauce.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – For assembling and baking the dish.
• Mixing spoons and spatula – For stirring and tossing ingredients.

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Microplane – For zesting lemon.
• Colander – To drain pasta efficiently.
• Food thermometer – To ensure shrimp is properly cooked.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the kind of dish that makes dinnertime feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s got everything you love about shrimp scampi—garlic, butter, and a bright hit of lemon—wrapped in the comfort of a cheesy pasta bake. The best part? It comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow this guide to make a dish that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress.

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready when it’s time to bake.

While the oven is heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—firm to the bite but not overly soft. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Tossing it with a little olive oil can help prevent sticking while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2 – Cook the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this helps them cook evenly and develop a better texture. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet.

Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Once they’re done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.

If you like a little heat, stir in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this stage.

Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken or seafood broth along with ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.

Lower the heat, then gradually whisk in ½ cup of cubed unsalted butter until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 4 – Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to ensure every piece is coated. The pasta will absorb some of the garlicky, buttery goodness, making every bite flavorful.

Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.

Step 5 – Assemble the Bake

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top, distributing them so every serving gets plenty.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. This will create that irresistibly gooey, golden crust when baked.

Step 6 – Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.

For an extra golden top, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes—but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7 – Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese and sauce to settle, making it easier to scoop.

Finish by sprinkling 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Pair this dish with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Success

Even the simplest dishes can be made better with a few key techniques. Here’s how to take your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake to the next level.

Use Fresh Lemon Juice

Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same bright, fresh citrus flavor. Squeezing a lemon takes seconds but makes all the difference in taste.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly—once it turns pink and opaque, it’s done. If you cook it too long, it will become tough and rubbery. If you’re unsure, remove it from the heat slightly early; it will continue to cook slightly as it bakes.

Add More Garlic for Extra Flavor

If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. The scampi sauce is all about that bold, garlicky kick.

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own Parmesan and mozzarella ensures a creamier, meltier texture.

For a Creamier Bake

If you prefer a richer texture, stir ½ cup of heavy cream into the sauce before tossing in the pasta. This gives the bake a silky, luxurious feel without overpowering the shrimp.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring a restaurant-quality dish straight to your table.

How to Store Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving, but storing them properly ensures the best texture and flavor. Whether you’re planning to enjoy it the next day or save some for later, here’s how to keep your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake fresh.

At Room Temperature

This dish is best enjoyed right after baking when the cheese is melty and the flavors are at their peak. If you have leftovers, don’t let them sit out for more than two hours. After that, bacteria can grow, and the dish won’t be safe to eat.

If you’re serving this at a gathering, keep the dish warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) until it’s time to eat.

In the Refrigerator

To keep leftovers fresh, transfer them to an airtight container once they have cooled to room temperature. Properly stored, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps the cheese melt properly and prevents the pasta from becoming too soft. If you’re short on time, you can also microwave individual portions, but cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the pasta from drying out.

Freezing Tips

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prep or batch cooking.

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating from frozen:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of broth or cream before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta, sauce, and shrimp, then assemble everything in the baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, pop it straight into the oven—just add 5 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chill.

What can I use instead of shrimp?

If you’re not a fan of shrimp or simply want to switch things up, here are some great alternatives:

• Chicken: Use diced, cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for an easy swap.
• Scallops: Small bay scallops cook quickly and add a sweet, delicate flavor.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu, cut into cubes and sautéed with garlic and olive oil.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The easiest way to do this is by placing the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.

Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the sauce watery.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little extra heat, try these options:

• Increase the red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon for more kick.
• Add a dash of Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy twist.
• Drizzle with hot sauce or mix in a spoonful of chili paste before serving.

Related Recipes

If you love this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, you might also enjoy these flavorful dishes:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A creamy, garlicky pasta dish perfect for dinner.
• Steak Pasta Recipe – A hearty combination of tender steak and pasta in a rich sauce.
• Chicken Mushroom Pasta – A cozy pasta dish with a creamy mushroom sauce.
• Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef – A rich, comforting pasta bake with bold flavors.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or making a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time.

The best part? You can customize it to suit your preferences, from adjusting the spice level to swapping proteins. Serve it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and simple.

Try it for yourself, and don’t forget to share your experience. This is one recipe you’ll find yourself making over and over again.

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