Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like a bubbling Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake fresh out of the oven. This dish takes all the garlicky, buttery goodness of classic shrimp scampi and transforms it into a cozy, cheesy casserole the whole family will love.

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I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something warm and comforting but still packed with bright, fresh flavors. It quickly became a household favorite, combining the elegance of shrimp scampi with the satisfying heartiness of baked pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake delivers all the flavor of a restaurant-quality dish in a simple, fuss-free recipe.

First, it's quick and easy to make. While traditional baked pasta recipes require long cooking times, this one comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

The flavors are irresistible. Juicy shrimp, garlic-infused butter, and a splash of lemon create a fresh, zesty base, while a blanket of melted cheese adds the perfect touch of indulgence.

It’s also great for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish easily doubles for larger gatherings without extra effort.

And let’s not forget the make-ahead convenience. You can prepare everything in advance, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready—ideal for meal prepping or stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients Notes

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake comes together with simple ingredients that work together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful dish.

Pasta: A short pasta like penne or rigatoni is perfect for holding onto the garlicky butter sauce and melted cheese. If you prefer a lighter dish, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well too.

Shrimp: Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Garlic and Butter: These two ingredients are the heart of shrimp scampi. Freshly minced garlic delivers a bold, aromatic punch, while butter creates a rich, velvety sauce. If you want a healthier option, swap half of the butter for olive oil.

White Wine or Chicken Broth: A splash of dry white wine enhances the sauce’s depth, but if you prefer to keep it alcohol-free, chicken broth is a great substitute that still adds a wonderful savory note.

Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are the dream duo here. Mozzarella melts into a gooey, creamy topping, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty bite. Feel free to mix in some provolone or Gruyère for extra richness.

How to Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it an easy yet impressive dish to serve.

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s just shy of al dente. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, you want it slightly firm to avoid overcooking. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side—just until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as they’ll finish in the oven. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

Deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon for that signature fresh scampi finish.

Storage Options

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stores beautifully, making it great for leftovers.

For refrigeration, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. A splash of broth or water helps revive the sauce.

For freezing, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, uncovering in the last 10 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!

Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a bolder kick.

Swap the protein: Not a shrimp fan? Use chicken, scallops, or even crab for a different take on this pasta bake.

Go low-carb: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter version while keeping all the delicious flavors.

Add veggies: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color, texture, and nutrients.

Use different cheeses: For a more complex flavor, try adding a blend of Asiago, Fontina, or smoked Gouda along with the mozzarella and Parmesan.

No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s equal parts cozy, elegant, and absolutely delicious!

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