Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

The warmth of a bubbling pasta bake emerges from the oven, filling the kitchen with the essential aromas of garlic and citrus. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings together tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and a cheesy topping all baked to perfection in just about an hour. It’s the ideal dish for family dinners or gatherings, thanks to its flavorful combination and ease of preparation.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who appreciate a rich, comforting meal. Enjoy it on a busy weeknight or as a special occasion treat. If you plan to make it ahead, you can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The blend of shrimp and pasta creates a satisfying bite.
• A crispy, cheesy topping adds delightful texture.
• Simple steps make it easy to prepare for any skill level.
• The dish is ready in less than an hour, perfect for busy nights.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious dish.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta

For the Shrimp Mixture

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

For the Cheese Topping

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops.
• Substitute lemon juice with lime juice.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Replace parsley with basil for a different flavor.

How to Make It

Let’s bring this pasta bake to life!

1. Preheat

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

3. Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

4. Cook Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine Ingredients

Stir in lemon juice, heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.

6. Mix Pasta and Shrimp

Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture until well-coated.

7. Add Cheese

Mix in half of the Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese until melted together.

8. Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheeses.

9. Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, the pasta texture may change.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and tender.
• Allow the pasta to cool slightly before mixing to prevent sogginess.
• Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier topping and better melt.
• Add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for added flavor.
• Enjoy with a crisp white wine to enhance the seafood.