Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you adore the classic flavors of shrimp scampi but crave a cozy, baked pasta dish, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your next must-try recipe. It combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a garlicky, lemony sauce baked to bubbly perfection with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without fuss, this dish brings all the bright, buttery flavors of traditional shrimp scampi into a comforting casserole form that everyone will love.

Reasons to Love Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful—the shrimp soaks up the garlic, olive oil, and lemon, while the pasta absorbs the savory broth, creating a rich and tangy sauce. It’s also a one-dish wonder, meaning you can prep, bake, and serve with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s highly adaptable; you can swap in your favorite pasta shape or add extra veggies for a boost. Finally, it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for entertaining, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli work beautifully)
• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking shrimp and sauce
• Baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches)
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

How to Prepare Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and curl, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and chopped parsley, stirring gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired, and enjoy!

International Equivalents

• Italy: Pasta al Forno with seafood variations
• France: Gratin de Crevettes (shrimp gratin)
• Spain: Cazuela de Camarones (shrimp casserole)
• Greece: Pastitsio with seafood twist

Pro Tips & Notes

• For perfectly cooked shrimp, avoid overcooking; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
• Try penne or fusilli pasta for better sauce absorption and texture.
• If you love cheesy bakes, mix in a bit of Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake flavors by adding a touch of cream or cream cheese to the sauce before baking.
• Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking gives a lovely crunchy topping.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the shrimp. This dish is best eaten fresh but can also be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and are just opaque—usually 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking results in a tough, rubbery texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw it completely, pat it dry to remove excess moisture, and proceed as usual.

What can I substitute for chicken broth to keep it vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. It provides a similar depth of flavor and keeps the dish light.

My pasta bake is too dry—how can I fix that?

If your bake turns out dry, next time add a little more broth or lemon juice to keep the sauce moist. You can also cover the dish with foil while baking to retain moisture.

Reader Favorites

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta – A quick skillet version packed with garlic and buttery goodness.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake – Creamy, cheesy, and perfect for comfort food lovers.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – A luscious pasta dish with a rich garlic cream sauce.

Bring It Home

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a brilliant way to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic shrimp scampi in a family-friendly, baked pasta format. Its ease of preparation combined with elegant taste makes it a reliable weeknight winner or a charming dish to share with friends. Whether you keep it simple or mix in creamy twists from similar recipes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake, this recipe promises a delicious meal that satisfies every time.

Give it a try tonight and enjoy the perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and cheese in every bite!

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