Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Pasta nights just got a whole lot more exciting with this mouthwatering shrimp scampi pasta bake that promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavors right to your dinner table.

Succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy, garlicky sauce create a luxurious twist on the classic Italian-American favorite.

Each forkful combines tender pasta, plump seafood, and a rich, herb-infused sauce that melts in your mouth.

The dish brings together simple ingredients with extraordinary results, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Crispy breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch to the top, elevating this comfort food to new heights.

Packed with bold flavors and easy to prepare, this shrimp scampi pasta bake will become your new go-to recipe that everyone will be begging you to make again.

Prepare to be the culinary hero of your next meal.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Ingredient Guide

• Linguine or Spaghetti: A classic Italian pasta that serves as the hearty base for this delicious bake.

• Shrimp: Tender and succulent seafood that brings a delightful ocean flavor to the dish.

• Butter: Adds rich, creamy depth to the sauce and helps sauté the ingredients.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth and luxurious sauce texture.
• Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Provide a melty, golden topping that adds irresistible cheesy goodness.

• Garlic: Offers a bold, fragrant base that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Brings a subtle kick of heat to the dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the taste.

• White Wine or Chicken Broth: Adds depth and helps deglaze the pan.
• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Provides a bright, citrusy freshness to cut through the richness.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor to finish the dish.

• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Ensures the pasta doesn't stick to the baking dish.

Instructions for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta Perfectly

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt.

Bring it to a rolling boil and drop in your linguine or spaghetti.

Cook until it’s just shy of fully done, following package guidelines (typically 8-10 minutes).

Drain and set aside, knowing it’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Sizzle the Shrimp and Garlic

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around for 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and fragrant.

Add shrimp and cook until they turn a beautiful pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 4: Create a Luxurious Sauce

• White wine or chicken broth
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper

Pour the liquid into the skillet and let it simmer, scraping up all the delicious browned bits.

Stir in the remaining ingredients and let the sauce bubble and thicken for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Seafood

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce.

Toss until every strand is gloriously coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Layer on the Cheesy Goodness

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Sprinkle both cheeses generously over the pasta.

Watch as they promise a golden, melty masterpiece.

Step 7: Bake and Garnish

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and sporting a gorgeous golden crust.

Let it rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Dive in and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Tips for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Select large, deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp work perfectly in this dish.
• Slightly undercook pasta during initial boiling since it will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta and maintains a perfect al dente texture.
• Simmer sauce until it slightly thickens to ensure a creamy coating without becoming too dry or watery. Watch the sauce carefully during reduction.
• Mix some cheese into the pasta and sprinkle remaining cheese on top for maximum melting and golden-brown coverage. This technique creates a more complex cheese experience.
• Modify red pepper flakes based on heat preference. Start with a small amount and add more gradually to suit individual taste without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavor.

How to Keep Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Fresh

• Transfer leftovers to a sealed container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the pasta away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its delicate flavor.
• Wrap the pasta bake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove pasta from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying, then bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Pairing Ideas for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay to complement the rich, creamy shrimp pasta. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the dish's buttery sauce while enhancing the seafood's delicate flavor.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Create a perfect side by toasting crusty French bread brushed with garlic butter. Its crunchy texture and complementary garlic notes will amplify the pasta's garlicky undertones and provide a delightful contrast.
• Match with Fresh Arugula Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan. The salad's peppery greens and tangy dressing will balance the pasta's richness and add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Add Chilled Citrus Spritzer: Prepare a zesty non-alcoholic drink mixing sparkling water, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey. This bright, effervescent beverage will cleanse the palate and echo the pasta's citrusy notes.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Twists

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular pasta with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta to make the dish celiac-friendly. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if adding a crunchy topping.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and dairy-free mozzarella for a plant-based cheese option.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute shrimp with roasted cauliflower or white beans. Keep the garlic and herb flavors intact while creating a protein-packed meat-free meal.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Reduce the overall carbohydrate content while maintaining the rich, creamy scampi sauce profile.

FAQs

• Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit them completely for a less spicy version. The heat is subtle and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

• Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Make sure to remove any excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery. Fresh or frozen both work well in this recipe.

• What type of white wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal. If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth makes an excellent substitute that maintains the dish’s rich flavor profile.

• How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 3-4 minutes. Remove them from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. The residual heat will continue to cook them slightly.

What’s Great About Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Transform a classic shrimp scampi into a hassle-free one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep and cleanup. Combine everything in a single baking dish for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
• Easily adjust the heat with red pepper flakes or swap white wine for chicken broth to match your taste preferences. The versatile recipe welcomes personal touches without compromising its delicious core.
• Create an irresistible golden, bubbly cheese topping that transforms ordinary pasta into a restaurant-worthy dish. The melted Parmesan and mozzarella guarantee a crispy, gooey exterior that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Pack protein-rich shrimp and creamy sauce into a kid-approved pasta format that appeals to both adults and children. This recipe bridges gourmet cooking with approachable, comforting flavors everyone will love.