Looking for a way to turn a classic favorite into a weeknight showstopper? Let me introduce you to Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—a glorious union of tender shrimp, bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and pasta blanketed under molten, golden cheese. It delivers all the elegant flavors of restaurant-style shrimp scampi in a crowd-pleasing, bubbly baked casserole that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual entertaining. With this simple method, you get all the bold, zesty character you love—just with gooey, crispy, cheesy edges that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings something special to the table, whether it’s a punch of citrus, a hint of heat, or that irresistible cheesy finish. You’ll be happily surprised at how these pantry staples come together for a dish that’s both impressive and comforting!
- Uncooked penne or linguine (12 oz): The base of the bake, perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of richness and helps the shrimp sear perfectly.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): Sweet and succulent, these are the star of our bake.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Gives the sauce that classic scampi silkiness and flavor.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): No scampi is complete without that garlicky punch.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just a whisper of heat—use more or less depending on your spice preference.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Lifts and balances the sauce with brightness; use what you have on hand for the flavor you love.
- Lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Sings with a fresh, citrusy kick that wakes up the whole dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds that wonderful savory sharpness and helps form a bubbly crust.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for gooey, crave-worthy texture on top.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup): Gives every bite a pop of color, freshness, and herbal aroma.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning every layer just right—taste as you go!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your penne or linguine until just al dente—meaning it’s tender but still has a little bite. This ensures the noodles won’t get mushy after baking. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you whip up the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Pat your shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Let them sizzle for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn plump and pink. Don’t overcook them—they’ll finish baking later! Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
Using the same skillet (no need to wash—those little brown bits add flavor!), melt the butter and add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant. Next, pour in the white wine or chicken broth and the fresh lemon juice, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to concentrate those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Shrimp
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the noodles in your garlicky, lemony sauce. Stir in half of the Parmesan and half of the parsley for herby, cheesy undertones in every bite. Now, gently fold in your tender shrimp so everything gets nice and cozy together.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with your shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan—this is where the magic happens and everything gets bubbly and golden. Bake in your preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is delightfully melty and just starting to brown around the edges.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
As the final step, sprinkle the bake with the remaining fresh parsley for a bright, beautiful finish. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before scooping, then serve up big spoonfuls of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake to a round of hungry applause!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green and a subtle, fresh flavor that brightens up the entire casserole. For extra zing, you might also finish each serving of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a sprinkle of grated lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to bring out those citrus notes even more.
Side Dishes
This dreamy pasta bake truly shines alongside crisp salads or simply steamed vegetables. Think a peppery arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or garlicky sautéed green beans. And of course, don’t forget a loaf of warm crusty bread to mop up every drop of that garlicky, cheesy sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake straight from the baking dish for ultimate family-style comfort. For a dinner party twist, scoop it into individual ramekins for a fun, personalized touch. Want to impress? Garnish with microgreens, more fresh herbs, or even a few lemon slices fanned out on top for a bistro-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store portions of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to help preserve that creamy, cheesy texture. When hunger strikes, you’ll be just minutes away from a delicious meal!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this pasta bake for future quick dinners. Just assemble everything up to the point before baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed until hot and bubbly.
Reheating
For best results, reheat chilled portions of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through—usually about 20 minutes. A microwave works in a pinch, but the oven helps preserve that gooey, melty cheese top and keeps the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet. Frozen shrimp are a super convenient time-saver for busy nights.
What type Main Course
Both penne and linguine are wonderful choices, as they hold up well to baking and grip the sauce. You can really use any short or long pasta you have on hand—rotini and spaghetti are delicious alternatives!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dish everyone can enjoy. Be mindful not to overcook the gluten-free noodles before baking so they stay nice and firm.
What if I don’t have wine on hand?
No problem! Use chicken broth for a rich, savory flavor without the wine. Either option delivers great results, so use what suits your taste or pantry.
Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Definitely! Try tossing in some baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced zucchini with the pasta—these all blend beautifully with the garlicky sauce and add extra color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake a try soon and experience just how joyful and impressive a homemade pasta bake can be! Whether you’re sharing it with family or dishing it up for friends, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite at your table. Dig in and savor every cheesy, lemony forkful!
