If you’re craving a meal that combines the comfort of baked pasta with the bright, garlicky flavors of the sea, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. It’s a delightful twist on classic shrimp scampi that brings everything together in one cheesy, creamy casserole perfect for sharing. The tender shrimp, luscious sauce, and perfectly baked pasta create a harmonious dish full of bold flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in bringing out the classic taste and irresistible texture of the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe. From the fresh shrimp that provide a succulent bite to the cheese that adds creaminess and a golden crust, each element is simple yet powerful.
- Pasta: Use your favorite type like penne or rigatoni, cooked al dente for the best texture.
- Olive oil: A splash to toss the pasta and sauté the shrimp, enhancing flavor with its fruity notes.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps build the sauce’s creamy base.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with that iconic scampi aroma and kick.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to add a subtle warmth that balances the richness.
- Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein full of delicate flavor.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity and enhances all the other flavors.
- Chicken broth: Helps thin out the sauce while adding a savory depth.
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a luscious, velvety texture that’s utterly indulgent.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch and helps thicken the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that golden, bubbly topping that’s irresistible.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish that adds color and a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon zest: Sprinkled on top for a bright, zesty finish.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until it’s just al dente—meaning it still has a tiny bite to it. This is important because it will continue to cook in the oven. Once drained, toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and to coat every bite with a subtle richness.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt butter and add olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes, letting the garlic get fragrant but not browned—that takes just about a minute. Add the shrimp and cook them 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re perfectly pink and opaque. Then, stir in lemon juice and chicken broth briefly to add moisture and bright flavor before removing the shrimp from the pan.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
To the same skillet with those delicious garlicky drippings, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until everything melts into a luxuriously smooth sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly, ensuring every spoonful coats the pasta in heavenly creaminess.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a large mixing bowl, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Grease your baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the mixture into the dish. Sprinkle liberally with shredded mozzarella and extra parmesan for that irresistible golden topping that shrinks the gap between comfort food and culinary magic.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly sauce and a lightly golden top. For an extra touch of crispiness, switch your oven to broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. That crust is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right after baking, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and a little lemon zest on top. This adds a lovely pop of color and that final touch of brightness that perfectly balances the richness.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a dash of lemon zest or wedges on the side amplify the bright, fresh flavors. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add just the right hint of heat if you love a bit of kick.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette or buttery roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also make ideal accompaniments, perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation. Alternatively, layer the bake with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added bursts of color and flavor to impress your guests visually and palate-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your fabulous dinner, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. The Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days and tastes just as delicious when reheated gently.
Freezing
This pasta bake freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Freeze in individual portions for convenience or as a whole dish wrapped tightly with foil and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and prevent drying out. You can also microwave smaller portions, but watch carefully to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in your sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety, and double-check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe?
Definitely, adding veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus can add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors nicely.
What cheese works best for this bake?
Mozzarella and parmesan are classic for their melting quality and flavor, but feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for a different twist.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe includes a modest amount of red pepper flakes, offering a gentle warmth without being overpowering. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe will quickly earn a place in your weekly dinner rotation. It’s comforting, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make, combining flavors that always please. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, the creamy sauce with tender shrimp and cheesy topping is a delightful experience worth sharing. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines succulent sautéed shrimp with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce and tender pasta, all baked to golden perfection with a melty mozzarella topping. This comforting Italian-American casserole is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, delivering rich flavors and a delightful crispy crust.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (linguine or spaghetti works well)
- Salt, for boiling water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, then toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice and broth, then remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: To the same skillet, add heavy cream and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and is smooth.
- Assemble the Bake: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella and the remaining parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta dish for 15-20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. For a crispy top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and lemon zest. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, flavorful pasta bake.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor in the sauce.
- Peel and devein shrimp prior to cooking for better texture and taste.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish, though the sauce will be less creamy.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
