Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp scampi pasta bake always reminds me of a cozy evening when I wanted to make something comforting and a little bit fancy without spending all night in the kitchen so I grabbed some shrimp and pasta and decided to bring them together in one bubbling, cheesy dish. As the pasta baked and the shrimp turned pink and tender, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of garlic, lemon, and buttery goodness, and I knew I had created something really special. When I finally pulled it from the oven and saw that golden, crunchy topping, I couldn’t wait to dig in and it became an instant favorite.

Since then this shrimp scampi pasta bake has been my go-to for dinner parties and lazy weekends when I want a meal that feels like a treat so it’s both impressive and surprisingly simple to make and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it and wow everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Large shrimp – Sweet, tender, and the star of this dish.
• Pasta (rigatoni or penne) – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Butter – Adds richness and that classic scampi flavor.
• Olive oil – Helps cook the garlic without burning.
• Garlic – Infuses the dish with bold, savory flavor.
• Lemon juice – Brightens everything up and adds freshness.
• Heavy cream – Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – For a salty, nutty richness.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Gives that perfect crispy topping.
• Fresh parsley – For color and fresh flavor.
• Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little heat.
• Salt and black pepper – To season every layer perfectly.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet – To cook the shrimp and sauce.
• Baking dish – To assemble and bake everything together.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Mixing bowl – To toss the breadcrumbs.
• Whisk and tongs – To stir the sauce and handle the shrimp easily.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

I start by boiling the pasta in salted water until just al dente since it will cook more in the oven. Then I drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. I add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then I toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. I remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In the same skillet, I add more butter and pour in heavy cream, whisking until it starts to thicken. I stir in lemon juice, half the Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Once smooth and creamy, I remove from the heat.

Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce

I add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat every piece. Then I gently fold in the cooked shrimp, reserving a few to place on top.

Step 5: Assemble and top

I transfer everything into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, I mix panko breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil and the remaining Parmesan, then sprinkle this mixture over the pasta.

Step 6: Bake

I bake at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

I finish with fresh parsley, extra lemon wedges, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a bit of heat.

Tips

If you want to make it extra special, I recommend adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth. You can also use a mix of shrimp and scallops for variety. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp so they stay juicy and tender.

Ways to Serve

I love serving shrimp scampi pasta bake with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread on the side. It’s also delicious on its own as a complete meal and perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shrimp scampi pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it fully and store in the fridge for up to a day, then bake when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make it without cream?

You can swap the cream for a mix of broth and a bit of extra butter for a lighter version.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this shrimp scampi pasta bake a try! It’s such a beautiful, crowd pleasing dish that’s full of comfort and flavor. Let me know how it turns out and share your favorite twists below! Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next pasta night or special dinner.

Happy Cooking!

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