Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you are craving a dinner that perfectly balances rich, buttery garlic flavors with tender shrimp and gooey melted cheese, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Combining the bright zest of lemon, the warmth of red pepper flakes, and the comforting texture of al dente pasta all baked in a bubbling cheese-topped casserole, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests, showcasing how shrimp scampi can shine in a whole new, baked form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe plays a crucial role, bringing layers of flavor, richness, and vibrant color to the dish. These simple essentials come together beautifully to create a creamy, garlicky sauce with a hint of heat and lemon brightness.

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: The perfect pasta shape to soak up the creamy sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and juicy, shrimp is the star protein adding sweetness and texture.
• 4 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a silky base for sautéing the garlic and shrimp.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with vibrant aromatic intensity.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle spicy kick to balance the richness.
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan, adding depth and a slight acidity to the sauce.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested: Lifts the flavors with fresh citrus brightness and fragrance.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce a luxurious, velvety texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers nutty, salty complexity that blends beautifully with the cream.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly, creating a golden bubbly topping that’s irresistibly gooey.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance every bite.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, herbaceous finish with a touch of green color.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish so that your creamy pasta won’t stick and the cheese bakes up beautifully golden on top. Getting this ready beforehand makes the assembly smoother later on.

Step 2: Cook Pasta Until Al Dente

Boil your linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until just tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. This ensures it will absorb the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy during baking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics in Butter

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. This creates the flavorful base that sets the tone for the entire dish.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, just a few minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them here as they will cook more in the oven. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to the hot skillet, scraping any delicious browned bits off the bottom. Let this simmer and reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors and adding a wonderful depth to your sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Lemon Sauce

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Continue to simmer gently until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This luscious sauce is where the brightness of lemon meets creamy indulgence.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, making sure every strand is well coated and flavorful. This creamy coating is what makes this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe stand out.

Step 8: Assemble the Bake and Add Cheese

Transfer the sauced pasta to your prepared baking dish. Nestle the cooked shrimp evenly over the top. Sprinkle the Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses generously, creating a rich, bubbling cheesy crust once baked.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and irresistibly bubbly. This final step melds all the wonderful flavors and textures together for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Step 10: Serve Hot with Parsley Garnish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for an inviting pop of color and freshness. Serve your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe hot and watch it disappear fast!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley adds more than just a beautiful green touch; it brings a subtle earthiness that balances the richness of the cheese and cream perfectly. A light squeeze of extra lemon juice on top right before serving can amplify the brightness and elevate the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables that offer a contrasting smoky flavor and crunchy texture. Garlic bread is also a classic side to sop up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve this pasta bake straight from the casserole dish at the table, inviting everyone to dig in. For a special occasion, plate it elegantly with a garnish of fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side, adding a restaurant-quality touch right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and that way you can enjoy this scrumptious meal without cooking all over again.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through to maintain the cheese’s deliciously melty texture. Alternatively, warming on the stovetop in a covered skillet with a splash of cream or broth can refresh the sauce and pasta nicely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine or spaghetti is recommended for optimal sauce coverage, any long pasta like fettuccine or even short pasta like penne can work well. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture after baking.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?

Not at all. White wine adds lovely acidity and complexity, but chicken broth is a great substitute that still creates a flavorful sauce without alcohol.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To dial up the heat, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate shrimp flavor.

Can I prepare the dish ahead of time and bake later?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta, sauce, and shrimp in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining.

What can I use if I want a lighter version of this bake?

Try swapping the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use part-skim mozzarella without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe brings together the best of classic Italian flavors with the comforting appeal of a cheesy casserole. It’s a vibrant, luscious, and surprisingly simple dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try the next time you want a dinner that feels special but requires minimal fuss – your taste buds will thank you!

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