Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines the buttery, garlicky flavors of classic shrimp scampi with cheesy baked pasta for a rich and satisfying dish. With juicy shrimp, a lemony white wine sauce, and a golden-brown topping, this easy casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Flavorful – A creamy, garlicky, and cheesy twist on shrimp scampi.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and bake when ready.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap pasta, or add veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A baked pasta dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta & Shrimp:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, linguine, or rigatoni)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat.
• Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds.
• Add shrimp, cooking for 2 minutes per side until pink.
• Stir in white wine, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
• Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same pan, add remaining 2 tbsp butter and heavy cream.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2 minutes until creamy.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

• Toss cooked pasta with the sauce.
• Mix in shrimp and mozzarella cheese.
• Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Make the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, olive oil, and garlic powder.
• Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.

6. Bake & Serve

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Cheesy – Mix in ricotta or cream cheese for more creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Lighter Version – Replace heavy cream with half & half.
• Veggie Add-In – Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or linguine hold the sauce best.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes! Use cooked, shredded chicken as a substitute.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer or add ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

What’s a good side dish for this?

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich—use whole milk or evaporated milk.

How do I prevent overcooked shrimp?

Cook until just pink and remove immediately.

Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes! Just add extra cheese on top instead.

Can I add bacon?

Yes! Crumbled crispy bacon adds great flavor.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky twist on a classic shrimp scampi. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, this dish is easy to make and absolutely delicious. Try it today for a comforting, seafood-filled pasta bake that everyone will love!

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