Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving comfort, elegance, and crave-worthy seafood all rolled into one, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is about to win your heart. Imagine juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a garlicky, lemony butter sauce all baked together under a blanket of melty cheese. This dish is my secret weapon for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even cozy weeknights when I want a little something special. Not only is it a flavor-packed showstopper, it’s easy enough to whip up with staples you probably already have at home. Get ready to turn a timeless scampi into an irresistible pasta bake everyone will talk about!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake plays a crucial role—from the briny sweetness of shrimp to the zippy lift of lemon, everything comes together to create true magic. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters.

• Pasta (12 ounces linguine or spaghetti): These noodles hold the sauce and bake up perfectly tender.
• Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star of the show—choose fresh or thawed, never precooked, for the best flavor and texture.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): This brings lusciousness to the scampi sauce, balanced by olive oil.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds smoothness and helps sauté the garlic without burning it.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Irresistibly aromatic, this is what gives scampi its signature depth and pop.
• Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Wine adds a subtle tang while broth keeps things mellow—use your favorite.
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): For gentle heat that perks up every bite.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, divided): Salty, nutty richness in every layer—don’t skimp!
• Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): The magic stringy melt across the top.
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): For a burst of color and brightness, both in the bake and as a garnish.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Invigorates the sauce and everything in it.
• Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Just a little provides a fragrant citrus punch.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): To balance and expand all the other flavors.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a gentle bite.
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing: Prevents sticking and makes sure every scoop lifts out beautifully.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with either butter or nonstick spray. Meanwhile, cook your linguine or spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s just al dente—the noodles will soak up more flavor and finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside, so you’re ready for that irresistible shrimp scampi mixture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant but not brown. This releases all the savory aroma that gives Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake its signature depth, so let the flavor lead the way here!

Step 3: Build the Scampi Sauce

Pour in your dry white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer extra richness without alcohol), adding the red pepper flakes. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes—this reduces and concentrates the sauce, giving you a bold, flavorful base for the shrimp.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add your large shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping once, just until they turn pink. Keep a close eye—overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast! Stir in the lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper for zingy, fresh notes, then remove the skillet from the heat right away to stop the cooking process.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a very large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, shrimp (with all that saucy goodness), half of the Parmesan cheese, and most of the chopped parsley. Mixing prevents clumping and ensures every forkful is as flavorful as the last. Confidence boost: taste for seasoning and adjust salt or pepper before baking!

Step 6: Layer and Bake

Spread your shrimp-pasta mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and scatter on the shredded mozzarella—these two melt together into a bubbling, golden crown. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is lightly golden. Let it rest a few minutes before serving so the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake sets up nicely.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

I absolutely recommend finishing your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a generous shower of fresh parsley, a final squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for brightness and a pop of color. It’s that little extra that makes dinner feel restaurant-fancy.

Side Dishes

This is a rich, satisfying bake that loves crisp sides. Think lightly dressed arugula salad, roasted broccolini, or classic garlic bread for sopping up sauce. And don’t forget a bright white wine (if you used wine in the recipe, pour a glass!) or sparkling water with lemon slices.

Creative Ways to Present

To really make an impression, scoop your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personal servings. Or, serve family-style in the center of the table, letting everyone dig into the irresistible cheesy top. A final flourish of lemon zest or parmesan can elevate the look without any fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container once cooled. Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, making lunch the next day something to genuinely look forward to.

Freezing

You absolutely can freeze this dish. Wrap the cooled bake tightly in foil (or transfer portions to containers) and freeze for up to two months. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—this prevents the cheese from separating.

Reheating

Reheat Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. Or, for individual portions, the microwave works well—just add a splash of water and cover to prevent drying out. The shrimp stay surprisingly juicy this way!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Linguine and spaghetti are traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine work wonderfully. Just aim for a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

What if I don’t have white wine?

No problem at all—you can use chicken broth for a gentle, comforting flavor. Vegetable broth can be a good pescatarian alternative as well.

Can I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake creamy?

Yes! Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream into the shrimp mixture before assembling the bake for an extra-luxurious, cheesy result that’s almost like a luscious casserole. It’s a heavenly twist.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (like broth and cheeses) are certified gluten-free. The rest of the preparation and baking stays exactly the same.

What kind of shrimp should I use for the best result?

Look for large, raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined—these offer the juiciest bite and soak up flavor the best. Fresh is fabulous, but frozen (thawed) shrimp work perfectly too.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about pulling a bubbling Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake from the oven—it’s the ultimate invitation to gather, share, and swoon over fantastic comfort food. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to crowd-pleaser!

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