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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Cook pasta, sauté garlic and shrimp, prepare a creamy lemon sauce, toss with pasta, top with cheeses, and bake until bubbly. A rich, flavorful dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve hot with fresh parsley garnish.
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Ranah
Updated on Sat, 15 Feb 2025 18:12:47 GMT
A delicious seafood dish with shrimp, cheese, and spices, all baked together in a white dish. Pin it
A delicious seafood dish with shrimp, cheese, and spices, all baked together in a white dish. | tastyblom.com

Transform classic shrimp scampi into a comforting pasta bake that combines tender shrimp and al dente pasta in a rich, garlicky sauce. This elegant casserole marries the bright flavors of traditional scampi with the cozy appeal of a cheesy pasta bake. Each bite delivers perfectly cooked shrimp, creamy sauce, and golden cheese topping.

During my quest to elevate classic shrimp scampi, this baked version emerged as the perfect combination of elegance and comfort, becoming my signature dish for special occasions.

Essential Elements

  • Large shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
  • Quality pasta: Long varieties work best
  • Fresh garlic: Creates aromatic base
  • White wine: Builds depth of flavor
  • Fresh lemon: Adds bright citrus notes

Creating Scampi Magic

Perfect The Base
  • Cook pasta until just al dente to prevent overcooking.
Build The Sauce
  • Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant but not brown.
Cook The Shrimp
  • Keep shrimp tender by not overcooking initially.
Create The Sauce
  • Deglaze with wine and add cream for richness.
Layer With Care
  • Combine pasta and sauce, top with shrimp and cheese.
Master The Bake
  • Watch for golden, bubbly perfection.
Add Final Touch
  • Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

My Italian grandmother always said the secret to perfect scampi was respecting the shrimp - gentle cooking preserves their sweet flavor.

A delicious seafood dish with shrimp and cheese. Pin it
A delicious seafood dish with shrimp and cheese. | tastyblom.com

Serving Suggestions

Transform this bake into an elegant dinner experience by creating a complete Italian-inspired meal. Serve alongside crusty garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. Offer extra grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes at the table. Consider pairing with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Present in a beautiful baking dish garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Creative Variations

Elevate this versatile dish by experimenting with different combinations. Try adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms. Create a spicier version with Cajun seasoning, or incorporate fresh spinach for added nutrition. Consider using different cheese combinations or adding a crispy breadcrumb topping. Make it gluten-free with alternative pasta or low-carb with zucchini noodles.

Storage Solutions

Maintain the perfect texture by storing properly. Keep leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days in the refrigerator. For make-ahead preparation, assemble without baking and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When reheating, add a splash of cream or white wine to maintain moisture.

Detailed close-up of shrimp scampi pasta bake, displaying shrimp, pasta, and a rich, golden-brown cheese topping. Pin it
Detailed close-up of shrimp scampi pasta bake, displaying shrimp, pasta, and a rich, golden-brown cheese topping. | tastyblom.com

Conclusion

This shrimp scampi pasta bake has become my go-to recipe for elegant comfort food. While simple to prepare, attention to cooking times and temperatures creates an impressive dish that's perfect for any occasion. Remember, quality ingredients and careful timing ensure perfect results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for similar results.
→ Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze before baking in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

A comforting baked pasta dish with shrimp, creamy lemon-garlic sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or entertaining.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired

Yield: 6 Servings (6 servings)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
02 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
03 4 tablespoons butter
04 4 cloves garlic, minced
05 ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
06 ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
07 1 lemon, juiced and zested
08 1 cup heavy cream
09 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 Salt and pepper to taste
12 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 03

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 04

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

Step 05

Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 06

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 07

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 08

Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.

Step 09

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp.

Step 10

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
  2. Freeze unbaked portions in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
  3. Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Colander (for draining pasta)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter, Parmesan, mozzarella).
  • Gluten-free if using gluten-free pasta.
  • Shellfish allergy warning (contains shrimp).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 520
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 25 g