Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes everything you love about classic shrimp scampi and turns it into a comforting, cheesy, baked dish that's perfect for any occasion.

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I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I was craving the bright flavors of shrimp scampi but also wanted something hearty and warm. The result? A bubbly, golden pasta bake that has now become a staple in my household.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines elegance with comfort food. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is bursting with flavor and comes together effortlessly.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to go into the oven in no time.

It’s also perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Not to mention, this dish is packed with flavor. The garlicky, lemony shrimp scampi sauce infuses every bite, while the creamy, cheesy topping adds an irresistible richness.

Best of all, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or serving guests, this dish is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes from a few key ingredients that work together to create a perfect balance of flavors.

Shrimp – Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well for this dish. Opt for large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for easy eating. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta – I love using penne or rigatoni because their sturdy shape holds up well in the bake and catches all the delicious sauce. You can also use fettuccine or spaghetti for a more traditional scampi feel.

Garlic and Butter – These are the heart of any shrimp scampi dish. Freshly minced garlic and a generous amount of butter create the rich, fragrant sauce that coats the shrimp and pasta.

Lemon Juice and White Wine – A splash of fresh lemon juice and dry white wine adds brightness and depth to the scampi sauce. If you prefer to skip the wine, chicken broth makes a great substitute.

Cheese – A blend of Parmesan and mozzarella adds creaminess and helps create that irresistible golden crust when baked. Feel free to experiment with Gruyère or Fontina for a more complex flavor.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the shrimp.

Next, in a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly, then stir in additional butter for a luscious sauce.

Toss the cooked pasta with the scampi sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Then, transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Nestle the shrimp on top, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

Bake in a 375°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown edges. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is wonderfully versatile, and you can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

If you love spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.

For a lighter version, swap out the butter for olive oil and use whole-wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative.

Want to add more protein? Stir in cooked chicken or even some crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

If you’re a fan of extra veggies, mix in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added texture and nutrition.

No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own!

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