Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, garlicky aroma of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake filling your kitchen. This dish takes all the bright, buttery flavors of classic shrimp scampi and transforms them into a comforting, cheesy baked pasta that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

I first discovered this recipe when trying to stretch a traditional shrimp scampi into a heartier meal for my family. By tossing everything with pasta, baking it under a blanket of golden, bubbly cheese, and adding a few extra seasonings, I created a dish that quickly became a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite baked pasta dish! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal ready to go in under an hour. No complicated techniques—just toss, mix, and bake!

This dish is also a fantastic way to feed a crowd. Instead of serving shrimp scampi as a standalone dish, baking it with pasta stretches the ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option for family dinners or gatherings.

Plus, the flavors are absolutely irresistible. The garlic butter sauce, zesty lemon, and juicy shrimp pair beautifully with melted cheese and al dente pasta, creating a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component brings its own layer of flavor, ensuring a perfect bite every time.

Shrimp – Choose large or extra-large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Pasta – Penne or rigatoni are excellent choices for this dish. Their ridged surfaces hold onto the buttery garlic sauce and cheese, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Garlic and Butter – The backbone of any good shrimp scampi! Freshly minced garlic sautéed in butter creates the rich, aromatic base of the sauce.

Lemon Juice and Zest – Fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and cheese. The zest adds an extra punch of citrusy freshness.

Cheese – A combination of Parmesan and mozzarella gives the bake a deliciously creamy and golden top. Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor, while mozzarella creates that irresistible melty goodness.

You’ll also need a baking dish, a large skillet, and a pot for boiling pasta to bring everything together seamlessly.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Making this dish is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a deliciously cheesy pasta bake that comes together in no time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Since the pasta will bake in the oven, it’s important not to overcook it at this stage. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and remove them from the heat.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp, garlic butter sauce, lemon zest, and a generous handful of Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well coated.

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and a bit more Parmesan. Bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra lemon zest for a final burst of freshness.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delicious second meal.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. If the pasta looks dry, a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of melted butter will help revive its sauciness.

Variations and Substitutions

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is super versatile! Try these variations to switch things up:

Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little kick.

Use a different protein – Not a shrimp fan? Swap in cooked chicken, salmon, or even scallops for a delicious twist.

Go low-carb – Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.

Add veggies – Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

However you make it, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

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