Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of garlic, butter, and lemon wafting through the kitchen as you prepare a warm, bubbling Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. This dish takes the classic elegance of shrimp scampi and transforms it into a cozy, oven-baked casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or a make-ahead meal.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to stretch a simple shrimp dish into a heartier meal. Combining juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, this bake has become a go-to in our house. One bite, and you’ll see why!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with this flavorful, easy-to-make dish! Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want delicious leftovers, this shrimp scampi pasta bake checks all the boxes.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish comes together quickly—ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using a moderate amount of shrimp combined with pasta makes this dish a cost-effective way to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love it? It’s make-ahead friendly. You can assemble it ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready. Perfect for meal prep or dinner parties!

Finally, the flavors are absolutely irresistible. The combination of garlic butter, lemon, and Parmesan cheese creates a bright yet rich taste that pairs beautifully with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component contributes to the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Shrimp: Use large or extra-large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Cooking the shrimp briefly before baking ensures they stay juicy and don’t overcook.

Pasta: I recommend penne, rigatoni, or ziti, as they hold up well in a baked dish and allow the sauce to cling to every bite. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente since it will finish cooking in the oven.

Garlic Butter Sauce: The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon juice is what gives shrimp scampi its signature flavor. A touch of white wine adds depth, but you can substitute chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds salty, nutty richness to the dish. A bit of mozzarella cheese on top creates that perfectly melted, golden-brown finish.

Breadcrumbs: A light sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs adds a crispy topping that gives a wonderful contrast to the creamy pasta underneath.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente, then drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they just turn pink—about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and pour in white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits. Add lemon juice and simmer for 2 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Stir in heavy cream and a generous handful of Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.

Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a baking dish, stirring to coat everything evenly. Top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it!

Storage Options

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is perfect for leftovers and meal prep! Here’s how to store it properly.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.

Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating: To keep the shrimp tender, reheat at a lower temperature—around 300°F—until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is! Here are some ways to switch things up.

Use a different protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it out for chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood like crab and lobster.

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.

Try a different cheese blend: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can experiment with Gruyère, Fontina, or Asiago for a deeper flavor.

Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Add veggies: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make fantastic additions to this pasta bake.

No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out and let me know your favorite twist!

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