This shrimp scampi pasta bake is what happens when classic shrimp scampi meets cozy baked pasta. I started making this on nights when I wanted something comforting but still bright and garlicky. It is creamy, packed with juicy shrimp, and finished with a golden cheese topping that makes everyone hover around the oven waiting for it to come out.
This dish works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for guests. It feels a little fancy, but it is very doable, which is exactly how I like my dinners.
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A delicious twist on the classic shrimp scampi, this creamy, garlicky pasta bake is loaded with juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a bubbly cheese topping. It is simple, comforting, and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Prep And Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375 F.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. You want it slightly firm since it will finish cooking in the oven.
Build The Scampi Base
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, keeping a close eye so the garlic does not brown.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, just until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make The Sauce
Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble The Bake
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp over the top.
Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella evenly over the pasta and shrimp.
Notes And Tips
- Do Not Overcook Shrimp: They finish cooking in the oven, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
- Wine Swap: Chicken broth works perfectly if you prefer not to cook with wine.
- Extra Golden Top: Broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end if you want a lightly browned cheese topping.
- Make It A Meal: Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
FAQs
Yes. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well in this shrimp scampi pasta bake.
You can assemble it a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven.
📖 Recipe
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Description
This creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines juicy shrimp, garlic, lemon, and tender pasta under a cheesy, golden topping — the perfect comfort dish for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat; sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute
- Add shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque; remove and set aside
- Deglaze skillet with wine or broth, simmer 2 minutes
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer
- Toss in pasta and coat evenly; season with salt and pepper
- Transfer pasta to a baking dish and top with shrimp
- Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the dish
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve
Notes
Use chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. Try penne or fettuccine as alternatives to linguine. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days.
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Final Thoughts
This shrimp scampi pasta bake is one of those recipes that feels comforting and fresh at the same time. Creamy sauce, garlicky shrimp, and baked pasta are always a win. If you try it, let me know how it turned out in your kitchen.
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This shrimp scampi pasta bake is creamy, garlicky, and baked with cheese. Easy shrimp pasta dinner perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
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This shrimp scampi pasta bake is creamy, cheesy, and full of garlicky shrimp. Easy pasta dinner the whole family will love. Save it for later.
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Love shrimp scampi? Try this baked pasta version loaded with shrimp, lemon, garlic, and melted cheese. Perfect comfort food dinner.
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