Shrimp Scampi Bake

Nothing beats the comfort of a cheesy, garlicky pasta baked with succulent shrimp. This Shrimp Scampi Bake is an effortless weeknight dinner that feels special but is totally approachable for beginners.

With tender shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, pasta, and a golden, cheesy topping, this dish is packed with flavor in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy date night at home — all made with simple pantry ingredients.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

2. Cook the shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Make the garlic butter sauce:
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, simmering 2 minutes.

4. Combine pasta and sauce:
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Mix in Parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water until creamy.

5. Assemble the bake:
Transfer pasta and sauce to a greased baking dish. Arrange cooked shrimp on top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.

6. Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Shrimp timing: Avoid overcooking, they cook fast and remain tender when just pink.
• Cheese melt: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for a gooey topping.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
• Sauce consistency: Adjust with reserved pasta water to achieve creamy, silky pasta.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Scampi: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper or cayenne.
• Vegetable boost: Toss in broccoli, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Creamy version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream with the sauce for an indulgent twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Scampi Bake is comfort food made simple — creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and ready in under 45 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings, giving you a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Cozy up, dig in, and savor every buttery, flavorful bite!