If you are craving a dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic with tender shrimp and ooey-gooey cheese, you are going to fall head over heels for this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic shrimp scampi, transformed into a warm, comforting casserole that’s perfect for sharing any night of the week. Imagine succulent shrimp nestled among perfectly cooked pasta, bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. This dish not only dazzles your taste buds but also makes an impressive yet surprisingly easy dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe unforgettable. From fresh shrimp to creamy cheeses, these simple staples come together beautifully.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or linguine): Your base for soaking up all the luscious sauce.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender seafood star of the dish, adding protein and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Creates the rich, velvety sauce foundation you’ll love.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity, smooth note and helps sauté the garlic.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): The aromatic punch that makes everything sing.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat kick that wakes up your palate.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Adds depth with a subtle tangy brightness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Infuses the dish with fresh citrus acidity.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of herbaceous color and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, warming spice.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, umami-rich component to the bake.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible, gooey topping.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cook your chosen pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente. The key here is to avoid overcooking because the pasta will continue to soften in the oven. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare your flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, letting them sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are blooming. Next, add your seasoned shrimp and cook them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous pink color and become tender. Remove the shrimp from the pan once cooked to prevent overcooking later.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
To the same skillet, pour in the white wine or chicken broth, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes so the sauce reduces slightly and develops a concentrated flavor. This is where the magic happens—watch how the sauce thickens and picks up those delicious browned bits from cooking the shrimp and garlic.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet along with the chopped parsley and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together meticulously to ensure each piece of pasta is coated in that silky, flavorful sauce. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella so it starts melding into the mix, creating a creamy base perfect for baking.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your pasta and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Nestle the cooked shrimp on top, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over everything. Pop this beauty into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling delightfully. The aroma wafting from your oven at this stage is absolutely irresistible!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is your best friend here—sprinkle it generously for a lovely pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich, cheesy sauce. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh greens like a simple arugula salad or a tangy Caesar. Garlic bread is another natural match, perfect for scooping up every last bite of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake in mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic yet elegant touch. Garnish each serving with a thin lemon wedge or twist to echo the dish’s zesty undertones.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some sauce over time, so it might benefit from a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the pasta bake as instructed, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen—just add extra time to ensure it’s heated through completely.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, or warm smaller portions in the microwave. Stir in a spoonful of broth or milk if the pasta seems dry, and finish with a quick broil to revive the cheese’s bubbly, golden finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that could dilute your sauce.
What type of pasta works best for the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe?
Both penne and linguine are excellent choices because they hold onto the sauce well, but feel free to get creative with rigatoni or farfalle for different textures.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus can enhance flavor and add beautiful color pops while boosting nutrition.
What wine pairs well with this pasta bake?
A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrusy, garlicky flavors wonderfully both in the dish and served alongside.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that turns weeknight dinner into a special occasion. With its winning combination of fresh shrimp, zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and melty cheese, it promises both comfort and elegance in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings around your table!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake featuring tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, tossed with pasta and a zesty lemon white wine sauce, then baked with a cheesy Parmesan and mozzarella topping until bubbly and golden. Perfect for a satisfying seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or linguine)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce and Seasoning
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce and Combine Pasta: Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the skillet, simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet along with chopped parsley and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce. Stir in half the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the pasta mixture into it. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the pasta and shrimp.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Garnish with extra parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for white wine if preferred.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes into the pasta mix for added flavor and color.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream before baking.
