Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a cozy, restaurant-quality dinner perfect for any night of the week. With juicy shrimp, a lusciously creamy sauce, a cheesy topping, and golden baked edges, every bite is comforting and full of flavor!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing fancy in this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta—just a handful of staple ingredients that each add something special. Every item brings texture, richness, or that signature scampi flavor you crave, and you probably have most of them on hand right now!

• Butter: The start of any great scampi, butter gives the sauce luscious silkiness and classic flavor.
• Minced Garlic: For that signature Italian aroma—jarred works perfectly here and saves time.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just a bit thickens the sauce into creamy perfection without being heavy.
• Whole Milk: Balances richness and keeps the sauce velvety without overpowering.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a deep savoriness and rounds out the creamy base.
• Salt & Pepper: Season simply, and let the shrimp and sauce shine!
• Egg (slightly beaten): This is the secret to a lightly set, custardy texture in every bite.
• Parmesan Cheese (shredded): Salty, nutty, and essential for authentic scampi flavor and texture.
• Ricotta Cheese: Brings extra creaminess and gives the sauce a gentle, cloud-like lift.
• Uncooked Pasta (any shape): Short shapes like penne or rotini work best, but use your favorite!
• Raw Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails off): The irresistible star—plump, juicy, and flavorful.
• Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Ooey, gooey, and golden—it melts over the top for ultimate comfort.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds brightness and a pop of color to finish the dish beautifully.

Variations

If you’re in the mood to make this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta your own, you’re in luck: it’s incredibly easy to tailor to dietary needs and cravings. Swap, add, or riff on the flavors to create your perfect, personalized dish.

• Swap the Protein: Try scallops, chopped cooked chicken, or even keep it vegetarian by adding sautéed zucchini and cherry tomatoes instead of shrimp.
• Use Different Pasta Shapes: This recipe works with penne, rotini, farfalle, or gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly option.
• Add a Citrus Twist: Stir a little fresh lemon zest into the sauce for extra brightness.
• Add Spice: A pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne brings a subtle, delightful kick.
• Make It Lighter: Use part-skim ricotta, reduced-fat mozzarella, or swap milk for half-and-half to fit your preference.

How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking (and keep the egg mixture from scrambling later), then drain again. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the scrumptious sauce.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Sauce

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and flour, stirring constantly until it’s fragrant and gently bubbling—this is where those classic scampi flavors start to develop. Pour in the whole milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper, whisking until everything is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Blend the Cheese Mixture

In a separate medium bowl, stir together the beaten egg, shredded Parmesan, and creamy ricotta. This mixture gives your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta an unbelievably rich, custardy feel. Set aside while you line up the baking dishes.

Step 4: Combine It All & Assemble

Spray two individual baking dishes with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheese mixture, pasta, and the luscious garlic-butter sauce. Divide the mixture between the dishes so everyone gets their fair share of creamy goodness!

Step 5: Top with Shrimp, Cheese & Parsley

Scatter the shrimp evenly over the pasta in both dishes, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a shower of chopped fresh parsley before it heads into the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbling

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, shrimp are cooked through, and the kitchen smells absolutely irresistible. Let the pasta cool for 5 minutes (it’ll help the sauce set), then serve straight from the oven!

How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even a dusting of extra Parmesan is the finishing touch that makes the colors pop and adds a fresh, herby note. You can also lay a paper-thin lemon slice on top for a zesty, eye-catching accent—so pretty!

Side Dishes

A crisp Caesar salad, some roasted asparagus, or flaky garlic bread pairs beautifully with your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta. Don’t forget a chilled white wine or sparkling water to round out this elegant meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop portions into wide, shallow bowls so the cheese and shrimp are front and center. For a fun dinner party vibe, bake in mini ramekins for individual servings! Or, garnish with a lemon wedge and ribbon of fresh basil for a restaurant-worthy effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as wonderful as the original!

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, the sauce and cheeses may change texture a bit after thawing. For best results, freeze unbaked portions, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual when you’re ready.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers, covered, in a 325°F oven until warmed through, or gently microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy if needed. Try not to overheat to avoid rubbery shrimp.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

You’ll fall in love with how cozy, satisfying, and downright crave-worthy this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta is—whether for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. Give it a go and savor the golden cheese, tender shrimp, and creamy pasta magic tonight!

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