Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake You’ll Love

If you’re craving a dish that blends succulent shrimp with rich, garlicky goodness in a creamy, cheesy baked pasta, you’re in the right place! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive yet simple meal for guests. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a buttery, lemon-kissed garlic sauce, all baked together with pasta and melted cheese to create a comforting, irresistible dish. Get ready to add this delightful recipe to your weeknight meal rotation—you’ll love every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: A creamy, cheesy, garlicky combination that everyone, even picky eaters, will enjoy.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, carbs, and sauce in one bake for easy cleanup.
• Versatile Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh shrimp, adaptable to what you have on hand.
• Impressive yet Comforting: Feels special enough for guests but cozy enough for casual dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Each item plays a crucial role—from juicy shrimp and al dente pasta to creamy sauce and fresh herbs.

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined, for that tender seafood flavor.
• Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best to hold the sauce convincingly in each bite.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for that classic aromatic punch central to shrimp scampi.
• Butter & Olive Oil: The base for the sauce, adding richness and depth.
• White Wine or Broth: Adds acidity and lightness, balancing the creamy elements.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens the dish and lifts the flavors beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: For the luxurious, creamy texture that makes this pasta bake irresistibly comforting.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, nutty flavor that melts perfectly into the sauce and topping.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds vibrant color and fresh herb notes at the end.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a subtle heat that complements the garlic and shrimp.
• Salt & Pepper: Fundamental seasoning to balance all the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

One of the best parts about this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to switch up the protein, accommodate dietary needs, or just experiment with new flavors, there’s plenty of flexibility here.

• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops, crab meat, or even chicken for a different take on the dish.
• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to increase nutrition and color.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free or spiralized zucchini noodles to keep it light.
• Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente. Drain it well but save about half a cup of pasta water—and set that aside for the sauce to keep everything smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then add shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in white wine or broth, scraping the browned bits from the bottom for flavor. Let it reduce slightly, then stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Add grated Parmesan and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If it feels too thick, loosen the sauce with reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce, then add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Mix in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, sprinkle extra Parmesan over the top, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. This final bake gives you a beautiful crust and melds all the flavors together.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Avoid garlic powder to get that vibrant, true scampi flavor.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It’s magic for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
• Balance the Lemon: Add juice gradually—you want brightness, not overpowering sourness.
• Go Easy on the Salt Initially: Parmesan and shrimp add natural saltiness, so taste before adding more.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Top your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with fresh chopped parsley and extra shaved Parmesan cheese for color and added flavor. A light drizzle of good olive oil just before serving can also elevate the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

Serve this pasta bake alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to complement the creamy richness. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette are fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that delectable sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake directly from a beautiful ceramic dish to showcase the golden cheese topping. Alternatively, portion out individual servings in small gratin dishes for a more elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake to cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it maintains freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through, maintaining that crispy top. You can also microwave portions, but cover them to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great—just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

What type of pasta is best for this bake?

Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their shapes hold the sauce well, but any pasta you enjoy can be used.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day ahead and store it in the fridge covered. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild by default, but adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce can easily spice it up according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake at home is a wonderful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal fuss. Its comforting creaminess combined with fresh shrimp and vibrant lemon makes it a true crowd-pleaser any night of the week. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted at how easy and rewarding it is to prepare and share a dish that everyone loves.

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