This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes the classic garlic butter shrimp dish to the next level by combining it with creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and a crispy, golden topping. The richness of butter and cream balances perfectly with the zesty brightness of lemon and the umami depth of Parmesan. Baked until bubbly and delicious, this dish is the perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients and a little baking magic, you’ll have a luxurious seafood pasta bake that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread, and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over the pasta bake.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Shrimp scampi is a beloved dish known for its rich garlic butter sauce, fresh seafood flavors, and comforting pasta base. Traditionally served as a simple skillet dish, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake transforms the classic recipe into a cheesy, oven-baked masterpiece. This version maintains the signature elements—succulent shrimp, a garlicky white wine sauce, and bright lemon zest—but elevates it with a creamy sauce, melty mozzarella, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this baked pasta delivers a balance of indulgence and elegance.
The Inspiration Behind Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
The origins of shrimp scampi can be traced back to Italy, where scampi (a type of small lobster) was cooked in a simple garlic butter sauce. When Italian immigrants brought the dish to America, they adapted it using shrimp, a more readily available seafood option. The result was a rich yet light pasta dish that quickly became a staple in Italian-American cuisine. The addition of a baked pasta variation adds a layer of comfort to the dish, making it a satisfying casserole-style meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Balanced Flavor Profile – The combination of butter, garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a sauce that is both rich and zesty, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Creamy, Cheesy Goodness – The addition of heavy cream and cheese makes the dish extra indulgent, ensuring a luscious texture in every bite.
- Perfectly Baked Texture – Baking the dish allows the pasta to soak up the flavors while the breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to Make – While shrimp scampi is traditionally made in a pan, this baked version requires minimal hands-on time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for the Best Flavor
For the best results, selecting high-quality ingredients is key. Here’s what to look for when preparing this dish:
- Shrimp: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Larger shrimp, such as jumbo or extra-large, work best to maintain their juiciness after baking.
- Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are the classic choices, but fettuccine or penne can also work well. Choose a pasta that holds sauce effectively.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that signature scampi flavor—avoid garlic powder, as it won’t provide the same aromatic depth.
- White Wine or Chicken Broth: White wine adds a sophisticated touch and enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth is a great substitute.
- Cheese: A combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a balance of nutty sharpness and creamy meltiness.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and cream.
Tips for Cooking Shrimp Perfectly
Since shrimp cook quickly, it’s important to handle them properly to achieve the best texture. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep these tips in mind:
- Cook Shrimp Separately First: Searing shrimp in butter and garlic before baking helps lock in their natural juices.
- Look for the Color Change: Shrimp turn from gray to pink and curl slightly when done—this usually takes 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove from Heat Promptly: Since they will continue cooking slightly in the oven, it’s best to undercook them slightly in the skillet.
How to Make the Dish Even More Flavorful
While this recipe is already packed with flavor, there are ways to enhance it further:
- Add a Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat and depth to the sauce.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme can elevate the dish with a burst of freshness.
- Roast the Garlic: Instead of sautéing minced garlic, try roasting whole garlic cloves for a mellow, caramelized flavor.
- Incorporate Seafood Stock: Replace part of the wine or broth with seafood stock to intensify the seafood essence.
- Drizzle with Extra Lemon Butter: Just before serving, a drizzle of melted butter mixed with lemon juice enhances the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great serving ideas:
- Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that’s perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a nutritious and colorful touch.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the buttery shrimp and lemony sauce.
Making It Ahead and Storing Leftovers
This baked shrimp pasta is a great make-ahead dish for busy schedules. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the pasta up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: While pasta with cream-based sauces doesn’t always freeze well, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to a month. Reheat slowly in the oven for best results.
- Reheating Tips: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of cream or broth before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake turns out perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Since shrimp cook quickly, adding them too early or leaving them in the oven too long can make them tough.
- Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Pre-packaged grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.
- Skipping the Breadcrumbs: The crispy topping adds a delicious crunch—don’t leave it out!
- Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking pasta before baking prevents it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
Variations to Try
If you love this dish but want to change things up, consider these creative variations:
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lower-calorie option.
- Spicy Cajun Twist: Replace Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.
- Extra Seafood: Add scallops, crab meat, or lobster for a more luxurious seafood medley.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegetable-Boosted: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a dish that effortlessly combines elegance with comfort. By transforming the classic shrimp scampi into a creamy, cheesy baked pasta, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of flavors and textures. The garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and golden breadcrumb topping create a perfect harmony that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions, this dish is versatile and easy to customize. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on the irresistible blend of shrimp, pasta, and cheese, baked to perfection.