Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the indulgent aroma of garlicky shrimp mingling with buttery pasta, fresh lemon, and a touch of white wine. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes all the beloved flavors of classic shrimp scampi and transforms them into a comforting, cheesy baked dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I first experimented with this recipe when I wanted to make shrimp scampi more filling for my family. By adding pasta and baking it with a golden, cheesy topping, I created a dish that quickly became a household favorite. Now, whenever I make it, the whole kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of butter, garlic, and bubbling cheese.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines the elegance of shrimp scampi with the heartiness of a baked pasta casserole.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. While traditional shrimp scampi requires constant stovetop attention, this recipe lets you assemble everything and pop it in the oven, freeing up your time.

It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal. Prepare it earlier in the day, store it in the fridge, and bake when you're ready for a hassle-free dinner.

This dish is packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and parmesan creates a rich, savory sauce that soaks beautifully into the pasta.

And best of all, it's family-friendly. Even picky eaters love the cheesy, garlicky goodness, and it’s easy to customize by adding extra veggies or swapping out proteins.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes from using high-quality, simple ingredients that work together perfectly.

Shrimp is the star of this dish, so opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works just as well—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta acts as the perfect base, soaking up all the garlicky, buttery goodness. I love using penne or rigatoni because their shape holds onto the sauce, but linguine or fettuccine work too.

Garlic and butter are essential for that classic shrimp scampi flavor. The butter gives richness, while the garlic infuses the entire dish with its unmistakable aroma.

White wine and lemon juice bring brightness and depth. Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with extra broth.

Cheese takes this dish over the top! A combination of mozzarella and parmesan ensures a perfectly gooey and golden topping that makes every bite irresistible.

You'll also need a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish to assemble and bake everything in one pan.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creating this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Since it will continue cooking in the oven, you want to avoid overcooking it at this stage. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the white wine and lemon juice, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavors.

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.

Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture, tossing everything together to ensure the sauce coats each piece. Transfer it all to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Storage Options

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is just as delicious the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making reheated portions even more flavorful.

To freeze, assemble the dish but skip the baking step. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

For reheating, warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are a few fun variations and substitutions to try:

• Use a different protein: Swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even lobster for a luxurious twist.
• Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese before baking for a richer, creamier version of this dish.
• Go low-carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter alternative.
• Add vegetables: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.

With so many ways to customize, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Try it out and let me know how you make it your own!

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