If you love the bright, garlicky flavors of classic shrimp scampi but want something that warms you up and feeds a crowd, you have to try this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe. It takes the luscious, buttery shrimp and pasta you know and love, then bakes everything to bubbly perfection with a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. It’s comfort food elevated, combining creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta into a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, baking this shrimp scampi pasta transforms it into a delightful, fuss-free meal that tastes like it took hours but actually comes together quickly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is surprisingly simple because each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From succulent shrimp to crispy breadcrumbs, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both elegant and homey.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti): These sturdy pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and juicy, shrimp are the star protein that soak up all the garlicky goodness.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and depth, helping develop that classic scampi flavor.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with its signature aromatic punch, essential for scampi.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: A splash of acidity that brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Cream brings a smooth, luscious texture that envelops each pasta piece in comfort.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds savory, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey, cheesy topping inside the bake.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Just a hint of heat to lift the dish without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley brightens the dish with fresh color and a subtle herbal note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor in the dish.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give the bake a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Butter binds the breadcrumbs and Parmesan for that perfect crispy topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top with the breadcrumbs to build layers of flavor and texture.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need to bake. While the oven warms up, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente — this ensures the pasta holds up in the bake without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside to combine with the shrimp and creamy sauce shortly.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Cook Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic aroma but the garlic hasn’t browned. Add the shrimp next, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque—this quick cook keeps them tender and juicy. Remove the shrimp and set them aside; you’ll stir them back in once the sauce is ready.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Into the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer), letting it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. This step concentrates the flavors and adds a lovely depth to the sauce. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; cook everything together for another couple of minutes to achieve a rich, thickened sauce that will cling to every piece of pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Shrimp
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every bite in that luscious garlic cream sauce. This is where you season with salt, pepper, and if you like a subtle kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now. Then stir in the shrimp along with half of the chopped fresh parsley to brighten the flavors and add that fresh pop of green.
Step 5: Assemble and Top Your Bake
Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish and transfer your shrimp and pasta mixture into it, spreading evenly. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and the extra Parmesan cheese; sprinkle this topping generously over the entire pasta. This blend will create a golden, crispy crust that adds a perfect textural contrast to the creamy filling beneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that top crust to turn a gorgeous golden brown and the sauce to bubble around the edges—this signals that your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve it warm to fully enjoy the melty cheese and decadent sauce. Now dig in and get ready to savor this sensational, crowd-pleasing meal!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish for this dish—it brightens the plate and adds a splash of color that makes your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe look as appealing as it tastes. For an extra touch, consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a few lemon wedges on the side to add a zesty tang that complements the buttery shrimp perfectly.
Side Dishes
Because this bake is rich and filling, pairing it with light, crisp sides balances the meal beautifully. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed asparagus with lemon zest complements the creamy pasta without overwhelming your palate. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also fantastic if you want to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, serve this baked pasta in individual ramekins to create personal servings that look elegant and help with portion control. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dusting of fresh basil leaves for a gourmet touch. Creating layers by alternating pasta and topping can make for a visually impressive casserole that will wow friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the topping crunchy, it’s best to store it separately and sprinkle on before reheating if possible.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to two months. It’s best to freeze the pasta bake before baking to maintain the best texture when reheated. Use a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to bring back the creamy texture and crisp up the breadcrumb topping. If using a microwave, cover the dish to keep moisture in, but expect the topping to be less crispy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What type of pasta works best for the bake?
Penne, rigatoni, or ziti are ideal because their hollow shapes hold the creamy sauce and bits of shrimp well, preventing the bake from getting soggy.
Is it necessary to use white wine or can I substitute it?
If you prefer to skip alcohol, chicken broth makes a great substitute. It still adds flavor without changing the dish’s character.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or wine.
How spicy is this shrimp scampi pasta bake?
This recipe is mild, with just a hint of heat if you add red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a baked pasta dish that combines the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with the comfort of a golden, cheesy crust. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe brings everything you love about seafood pasta into one effortless and impressive meal. I promise once you try it, it will become your go-to for dinner parties or cozy nights in. So grab your ingredients, invite your favorite people to the table, and get ready to savor a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy garlic sauce, pasta, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this baked pasta recipe features a luscious blend of butter, garlic, white wine, and cheeses that come together beautifully in the oven for a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to be combined with the sauce and shrimp.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Create Sauce Base: Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken over about 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet and mix well to coat it in the creamy garlic sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Add Shrimp and Parsley: Stir in the cooked shrimp and half of the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining parsley, serve warm, and enjoy your flavorful shrimp scampi pasta bake!
Notes
- Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for best flavor; chicken broth can be substituted for a non-alcoholic version.
- If shrimp is not available, you can use scallops or cooked chicken as an alternative.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture helps prevent the bake from becoming mushy.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- If you want extra cheese, sprinkle some more mozzarella on top before baking.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
