Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you adore a creamy, garlicky pasta dinner but crave a little extra flair, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is destined to become your new obsession. Imagine everything you love about classic shrimp scampi—tender shrimp, luscious sauce, loads of garlic—all tossed with pasta and baked under a cheesy, golden crust. It’s cozy, breezy comfort food designed for sharing (and for making you a kitchen hero with minimal fuss!).

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake so irresistible is the combination of simple, honest ingredients that each bring something special. From the creamy base to the savory shrimp and that signature cheesy finish, every component matters—so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why.

• Rigatoni or Penne Pasta: These shapes hold up wonderfully in the bake and capture every drop of sauce in their nooks and crannies.
• Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined: Opt for medium to large shrimp for best texture and flavor—they stay juicy and make the dish feel extra luxurious.
• Butter: The backbone of all great scampi, butter lends richness and that classic, silky mouthfeel.
• Garlic: Don’t be shy—freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and boldness that’s non-negotiable in any scampi-inspired dish.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce irresistibly creamy (without being heavy), binding the pasta and shrimp into one harmonious, velvety mixture.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and rounds out the cream; a little goes a long way in balancing the sauce so it’s not one-note.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty punch that melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The oozy, melty topper—because a pasta bake without mozzarella just isn’t the same.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a little heat! Add to taste, or skip if you like things mild.
• Italian Seasoning: A vibrant blend of herbs for depth and aroma; it ties the whole dish together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the bold flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and bright green color—don’t skip this simple garnish!
• Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional): For that glorious golden crunch on top; highly recommended for texture lovers.

Variations

One of the best things about this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is how easily you can tweak it to suit your mood, the season, or what’s hanging out in your fridge. Feel free to get creative—bakes like this practically beg to be customized!

• Swap the Protein: Try cubed cooked chicken or scallops instead of shrimp, or even a blend for surf-and-turf vibes.
• Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli florets for color and extra nutrition.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in low-fat mozzarella for a less indulgent version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta and gluten-free panko for an allergen-friendly dish.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your rigatoni or penne in generously salted water just until al dente. This ensures your noodles stay perfectly firm even after baking. Don’t overcook—remember, the pasta will finish softening in the oven. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve just a splash of pasta water in case your sauce needs a little loosening later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Season your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a touch of heat). In a large skillet, melt half your butter and cook the shrimp over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Don’t crowd the pan and resist the urge to overcook, or the shrimp will turn rubbery. Transfer them to a plate as soon as they’re opaque and juicy.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

Now, in the same skillet (so you don’t lose all those savory bits!), add the rest of your butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté briefly—just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Once it’s steamy, add Parmesan and Italian seasoning, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is silky-smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp With Sauce

Return the pasta and cooked shrimp to your skillet and toss well, making sure everything is deliciously coated in the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems a tad too thick, a splash of that reserved pasta water works wonders to loosen it up—don’t be shy!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the saucy mixture to a lightly greased oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the top, plus a shower of panko breadcrumbs if you love a crunchy topper. Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and gloriously golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake emerges from the oven, finish with a vibrant sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. This adds a final pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve it up hot and watch everyone race for seconds!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Finish your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a generous scattering of chopped fresh parsley (or even a touch of fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy). A grating of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of quality olive oil just before serving adds a little chef’s kiss to every plate. Lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add bright, citrusy freshness as they please.

Side Dishes

This recipe is delightfully rich, so simple sides work best. Try a crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette, or roasted broccolini for some bite. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are basically required—perfect for scooping up all that dreamy sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a wow-worthy touch. Hosting family? Just bring the bubbling bake straight to the table for easy, casual feasting. You can even portion leftovers into lunch-sized containers for elegant, envy-inducing midweek meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will last beautifully for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While the bake is at its ooziest right from the oven, re-warmed leftovers make for a heavenly quick meal the next day (hello, weeknight victory!).

Freezing

You can freeze Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake either before or after baking. To freeze before, just prep everything except the cheese and breadcrumb topping, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months. Add topping and bake straight from frozen, adding a little extra time, until piping hot throughout.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or an extra splash of cream on top to keep things moist and luscious.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—the comfort of baked pasta, the decadence of creamy sauce, and the elegance of garlicky shrimp all in one. Gather your favorite people, pour a glass of something sparkly, and dig in. You’re about to make a lot of happy memories (and win serious dinner points) with this one!

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