There's nothing quite like the rich, garlicky aroma of Shrimp Scampi filling the kitchen, but this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes the classic dish to a whole new level. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a buttery, lemon-infused sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection under a layer of golden cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort meal with a gourmet touch!

I first made this dish when looking for a way to turn my favorite shrimp scampi into a hearty, make-ahead meal. It was an instant hit with my family, disappearing from the dinner table in record time. Now, it’s my go-to for both busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed pasta bake. Whether you need a quick family meal or a dish to impress, this recipe has you covered.
First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready for the oven in under 30 minutes.
It's also perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready—ideal for busy schedules or entertaining guests.
Not to mention, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Even those who claim not to love seafood will be reaching for seconds once they get a taste of the buttery, garlicky shrimp nestled in creamy pasta.
And best of all? It’s budget-friendly! Using simple pantry staples and frozen shrimp keeps this dish both affordable and delicious.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each element brings a crucial flavor and texture to the dish.
Pasta: I recommend using penne or rigatoni because their ridges help hold onto the luscious sauce. However, any sturdy pasta shape will work well.
Shrimp: Large or extra-large shrimp work best here. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
Garlic and Butter: These are the foundation of any good scampi dish. Fresh garlic infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma, creating a rich, savory base for the sauce.
Lemon Juice and Zest: The acidity from fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors, while the zest adds an extra punch of citrusy freshness.
Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: Parmesan adds depth and nuttiness, while mozzarella ensures a gooey, melty topping that makes this bake absolutely irresistible.
For best results, use a large oven-safe skillet or a casserole dish to ensure even baking and easy cleanup.
How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this dish is a breeze, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Follow these simple steps to make it at home.
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Since it will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking it prevents mushy pasta in the final dish.
While the pasta is cooking, sauté the shrimp. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant before tossing in the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Next, make the scampi sauce. In the same skillet, add more butter along with lemon juice, zest, and a splash of white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option). Let it simmer for a couple of minutes before stirring in heavy cream and grated Parmesan.
Now, it's time to assemble the bake. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and shrimp, tossing to coat everything evenly. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese.
Finally, bake until golden and bubbly. Pop the dish into a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and lightly golden.
Storage Options
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
For freezing, assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- Use a different protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it out for cooked chicken, scallops, or even crab meat for a unique twist.
- Add veggies: Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to add some extra nutrients and color.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring some heat for those who love a little spice.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour to keep this dish gluten-free.
No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when your family asks for it again and again!
PrintShrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring succulent shrimp, garlic butter sauce, parmesan, and baked pasta. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or ziti)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the pan, simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
- Add pasta to the sauce, mixing well. Fold in shrimp.
- Transfer to the baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed).
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Add extra cheese for a richer flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Leave a Reply