Why You’ll Love Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake:
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Has bold flavor from garlic, lemon, and butter
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Features a rich, cheesy topping that’s comforting and irresistible
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Comes together easily with simple ingredients
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Is versatile — perfect for family meals or dinner parties
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Offers a mix of sophistication and comfort in every bite
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1 lemon (juice and zest)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
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Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up bits from the pan.
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Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add the pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish and arrange the shrimp on top.
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Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: approximately 35 minutes
Variations
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Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops for a different protein
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Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low‑carb version
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Try different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for extra flavor
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Add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition
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Replace white wine with extra lemon juice or broth for a wine‑free option
Storage/Reheating
To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best?
Long pastas like linguine or spaghetti work well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes — thaw and drain before cooking.
Is white wine necessary?
No — you can substitute chicken broth or extra lemon juice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — prepare up to assembling before baking and refrigerate before cooking.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook pasta until just al dente and drain well before adding to the sauce.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes — add spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
What cheese is best?
Mozzarella and Parmesan offer creamy and salty flavor; feel free to mix in others like Pecorino.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes; adjust to your preference.
Can I make it gluten‑free?
Yes — use gluten‑free pasta and optional gluten‑free breadcrumbs.
How should leftovers be reheated?
Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines classic flavors with comforting baked pasta to create a meal that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this creamy, cheesy pasta dish delivers big flavor in every bite. Enjoy!
