Shrimp scampi pasta Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a pasta dish that’s both luxurious and comforting, you’re in for a treat with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. It’s a beautiful melding of tender noodles, succulent shrimp, and a garlicky cream sauce, all wrapped under a blanket of bubbling cheese. The absolute magic happens when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, so every bite gets a little of everything—cheese, sauce, shrimp, and pasta. This recipe is the best of both worlds: it captures the quick, bright flavors of traditional shrimp scampi, then elevates it with a lavish oven-baked finish. Trust me, this one will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of this recipe is how each ingredient lends its own special note to the symphony of flavors. Simple but thoughtfully chosen, these pantry and fresh staples are what make the dish sing—no substitutions required for full effect!

• Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are perfect for soaking up the creamy, garlicky sauce and holding up in the oven.
• Shrimp: Go for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp; they’ll cook up juicy and provide the perfect texture against the pasta.
• Butter: The backbone of any scampi, butter adds richness and helps the aromatics bloom.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is non-negotiable for that signature scampi boost.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch for a subtle, tingly heat that has you coming back for more.
• White Wine or Chicken Broth: White wine offers depth and brightness, or use broth for an alcohol-free version without sacrificing flavor.
• Lemon (juice and zest): The citrus brings balance, keeping things light and zippy.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious, ultra-creamy sauce you’ll crave all week!
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory, nutty notes—freshly grated is ideal!
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into irresistible, gooey pockets throughout the bake.
• Salt and Pepper: Just to taste, for seasoning at every step.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end lends a pop of color and herbal freshness.

How to Make shrimp scampi pasta

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven for Perfection

Before you get started, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial—it ensures that when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly, you’ll get a perfectly melted and bubbly cheese topping in no time.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and toss in your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s just al dente—the pasta will continue cooking in the oven later. Once done, drain and set aside. This step is key for that ideal texture when you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish later.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics for a Fragrant Base

In a roomy skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and those fiery red pepper flakes. Sauté for about one minute until your kitchen smells mouthwateringly garlicky—this aromatic base will flavor the whole dish.

Step 4: Cook Those Shrimp!

Add the shrimp right to the hot, fragrant skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Scoop the shrimp out and set them aside—you’ll want to transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, before crowning it with these beauties.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any golden bits stuck on the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, concentrating flavor and adding a playful complexity to the sauce.

Step 6: Bring in the Lemon and Cream

Zest and juice your lemon straight into the skillet, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and gently bring it to a simmer. Let it bubble away until it thickens slightly—this is the sauce that will hug every strand of pasta.

Step 7: Toss Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Return the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well, coating every noodle in that creamy, citrusy sauce. Now, season with salt and pepper to taste. This is the perfect moment to eyeball your pasta before you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish.

Step 8: Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly and Add the Shrimp

This is the moment! Using tongs or a large spoon, transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly from corner to corner. Nestle the cooked shrimp evenly over the top so every serving gets a generous helping of seafood.

Step 9: Add the Cheese

Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella all over. These melt into every nook, bubbling and browning beautifully in the oven.

Step 10: Bake Until Bubbling

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 15–20 minutes. The cheese should be gloriously melted, bubbling, and just starting to brown at the edges.

Step 11: Finish and Serve

Carefully remove from the oven (it’ll be piping hot!) and shower the dish with fresh chopped parsley. Now, you’re ready to dig in and experience shrimp scampi pasta bake like never before. Don’t forget to transfer the pasta to a large baking dish—the texture and flavor will be absolutely perfect.

How to Serve shrimp scampi pasta

Garnishes

After you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish and pulling it bubbling from the oven, take a minute to add a final layer of joy with bright, chopped fresh parsley, extra lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. These little additions highlight the creamy, savory flavors and give each plate a gourmet finish.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve your pasta bake with a crisp green salad—think peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette—or classic garlic bread for scooping up every last bit of sauce. Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli pair beautifully, adding color and crunch to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling festive, portion the pasta into individual ramekins before baking. Or, after you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, use a large serving spoon to create artful swirls on each plate. For the ultimate dinner party move, dust finished plates with a touch of smoked paprika or a wedge of lemon on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your shrimp scampi pasta bake tightly with foil or transfer it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for incredibly delicious next-day lunches, as all the flavors meld together even more.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your culinary creation, cool the dish completely, then transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, if you haven’t already, and wrap it tightly with both plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick lunches; just be sure to use a microwave-safe container and cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and prevents extra water from diluting your luscious sauce.

What’s the best pasta shape for a scampi bake?

Linguine or spaghetti are classic, but you can use any shape you love—penne or rigatoni work well too, especially if you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, for even cheesiness and saucing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can! Swap the butter for olive oil and use your favorite plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. The result will still be irresistibly creamy and full of scampi flavor.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble everything up to the point where you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta bake?

Yes! Gently wilted spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or cooked asparagus are wonderful additions. Just stir them into the pasta and sauce before you transfer the pasta to a large baking dish.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an utterly craveable Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake that brings warmth and wow-factor to your table. If you’ve never tried to shrimp scampi pasta, you’ll be amazed at how this simple step takes your pasta from everyday fare to full-on comfort masterpiece. Invite family or friends over, and prepare for rave reviews!

Print