Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery flavor of shrimp scampi, and when you turn it into a pasta bake, it becomes the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a garlicky lemon-butter sauce, all baked to golden perfection under a cheesy crust.

this Recipe

I first made this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake on a busy weeknight when I wanted something both indulgent and easy. Now, it’s a family favorite that disappears fast whenever I serve it. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to baked pasta dish. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make.

First off, it’s packed with garlicky, buttery goodness. If you love classic shrimp scampi, this baked version takes those flavors to the next level with a creamy, cheesy twist.

It’s also ridiculously simple to throw together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner in the oven in under 20 minutes.

Not to mention, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, the combination of juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping is always a hit.

Plus, it’s great for meal prep. Leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy this dish for lunch the next day—if there’s any left!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each one plays a key role in bringing out the best flavors.

Shrimp – Fresh or frozen shrimp work well here, but I recommend using large shrimp for the best texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta – A sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti holds up best in a baked dish. These shapes trap the sauce, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.

Garlic and Butter – The heart of any shrimp scampi dish. Fresh garlic adds depth, while butter creates that signature rich, velvety sauce.

Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and cheese.

White Wine – Traditional shrimp scampi includes white wine for a touch of acidity. If you prefer, you can substitute it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Cheese – A combination of Parmesan and mozzarella gives the dish the perfect cheesy topping. Parmesan adds a nutty depth, while mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey layer.

Breadcrumbs – A light sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a deliciously crisp texture when baked.

If you have a casserole dish and a large skillet, that’s all you need to bring this dish together with ease.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish comes together in a few simple steps, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. You want it just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt a few tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

In the same skillet, pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute to deglaze the pan. Add more butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a touch of heavy cream for extra richness. Stir everything together, then toss in the cooked pasta and shrimp.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a light layer of breadcrumbs.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Options

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

If you have extra, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even better.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps the texture best.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is already packed with flavor, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick.

If you're not a fan of shrimp, try substituting it with cooked chicken or even scallops for a different seafood twist.

For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half and use whole wheat pasta instead of regular.

Love veggies? Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to add extra depth and nutrition.

Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish completely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a guaranteed winner. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your household!

Print