Few dishes feel as comforting and elegant at the same time as shrimp scampi. Add pasta, creamy cheese, and a warm oven bake, and suddenly you’ve got a dish that’s both family-friendly and special enough for guests. Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is that perfect blend—juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, tender pasta, and a golden, cheesy top that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
The best part? It’s easy enough for a weeknight but cozy enough for a Sunday dinner around the table. With simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a bubbling dish of comfort ready in under an hour.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Pasta Bake |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 servings |
| Calories | ~420 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni work well)
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup dry chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente (it will bake further in the oven). Drain and set aside. - Prepare the shrimp
In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp turn pink (2–3 minutes). Remove shrimp and set aside. - Make the sauce
In the same skillet, pour in lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and let it thicken slightly. - Assemble the bake
In a greased baking dish, combine cooked pasta, sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Add shrimp and mix gently. Top with remaining cheeses. - Bake
Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly. - Finish & serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm, straight from the oven.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and should be just pink and opaque—otherwise they’ll get rubbery.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the pasta bake up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken swap: Replace shrimp with diced cooked chicken for a heartier version.
- Veggie boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Add garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
- Serve with a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the ultimate cozy comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family or friends around the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight craving or a weekend gathering, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.