Introduction

This Ultimate Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines the classic flavors of garlic, lemon, and butter with tender shrimp and pasta, all baked to perfection. It’s an incredibly easy, one-dish meal that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. For more citrus-inspired desserts, try this Luscious Lemon Cream Roll Cake with Lemon Glaze or these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

Ingredients

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake delivers restaurant-quality flavor with its creamy, garlicky sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly baked cheesy topping that’s both comforting and impressive.

• 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to the efficient baking method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

Step 2 — Sauté Aromatics

In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3 — Cook the Shrimp

Add the raw shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they just turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside—they will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4 — Make the Scampi Sauce

Pour white wine and fresh lemon juice into the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let the liquid reduce by half, then stir in chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 5 — Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the scampi sauce. Fold in half of the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6 — Assemble the Bake

Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the pasta. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and a layer of breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy topping. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help the breadcrumbs brown.

Step 7 — Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Step 8 — Rest and Garnish

Let the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or extra Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Chicken instead of shrimp — Offers a leaner protein option while maintaining a satisfying texture.
• Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash — Creates a lower-carb, gluten-free version of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.
• Gluten-free pasta — A direct swap for those with gluten sensitivities, keeping the classic pasta bake feel.
• Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan — Provides a dairy-free, cheesy flavor with added B vitamins.
• Coconut aminos instead of soy sauce — Delivers a similar umami depth with significantly less sodium.
• Olive oil instead of butter — A heart-healthy fat swap that still carries the garlic and herb flavors beautifully.
• Mushrooms instead of some shrimp — Adds a meaty, savory element while reducing the overall seafood content.
• Low-sodium vegetable broth — Cuts down on salt without sacrificing the liquid base for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich, garlicky flavors.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
• This dish is perfect for casual dinner parties or cozy family nights—it’s both impressive and easy to share.
• For a fresh contrast, top individual servings with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
• Plate in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and tender shrimp, garnishing with lemon wedges for a vibrant touch.
• Ideal for potlucks or holiday gatherings, as it holds well and can be made ahead.

Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a weeknight treat, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with light sides and bright garnishes for a memorable meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the shrimp before baking. Fix: Add raw or lightly seared shrimp to the bake—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Mistake: Using watery sauce that thins out during baking. Fix: Simmer your scampi sauce until slightly thickened before combining with pasta.
• Mistake: Skipping the pasta water reserve. Fix: Save ½ cup starchy pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to noodles.
• Mistake: Overloading the baking dish, leading to uneven cooking. Fix: Use a wide, shallow dish to promote even heat distribution and browning.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, which can toughen shrimp. Fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for gentle, thorough heating without overcooking.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the dish, since pasta dilutes flavor. Fix: Season the sauce assertively and taste before baking—pasta will absorb seasoning.
• Mistake: Using pre-cooked or frozen shrimp without thawing. Fix: Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in your bake.
• Mistake: Neglecting the breadcrumb topping, missing texture contrast. Fix: Top with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy finish that complements tender shrimp.
• Mistake: Overbaking until the shrimp scampi pasta bake dries out. Fix: Bake just until bubbly and shrimp are opaque—usually 15–20 minutes.
• Mistake: Mixing delicate herbs in before baking, causing them to wilt. Fix: Stir fresh parsley or basil in after baking to preserve bright flavor and color.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain food safety.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until steaming hot, or bake the entire dish covered with foil at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, typically 20-30 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to prevent foodborne illness.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. If you love easy seafood dinners, you might also enjoy our Shrimp Casserole Recipe Easy or Olive Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment with your review!

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FAQs

Can I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to one day before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What is the best type of pasta to use for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Linguine or fettuccine work best as they hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use penne or rigatoni for a baked version of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, as their shapes help capture the sauce.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking in the bake?

To keep shrimp tender, use raw, peeled shrimp and add them to the bake during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This method ensures your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake has perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp without becoming rubbery.