Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of buttery garlic shrimp, al dente pasta, and a luscious lemon-infused sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes everything you love about classic shrimp scampi and transforms it into a cheesy, bubbling casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

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I first made this dish when I wanted something warm and hearty but still light enough to remind me of summer seafood feasts. The result? A pasta bake so delicious that even the pickiest eaters couldn’t resist going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe rotation! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

First, it combines the rich, garlicky goodness of shrimp scampi with the comfort of a baked pasta dish. The butter and garlic coat each piece of shrimp beautifully, while the fresh lemon juice adds a bright, refreshing contrast.

It’s a simple one-dish meal that cuts down on cleanup. Instead of juggling multiple pans, you can toss everything together and let the oven do the work.

The gooey melted cheese takes this dish to the next level. Mozzarella and Parmesan blend together to create a crispy golden topping that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp and pasta.

Best of all, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the pasta, use different cheeses, or even add a little heat with red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this dish’s incredible flavor lies in its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component brings something special to the table, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Shrimp – Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp work best, but frozen shrimp will do in a pinch—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta – A sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works best, as it holds onto the sauce and bakes well without getting mushy. If you prefer a lighter version, whole wheat or chickpea pasta are great alternatives.

Garlic and Butter – The heart of shrimp scampi! Freshly minced garlic and unsalted butter create a rich, aromatic base for the dish.

Lemon Juice and Zest – Fresh lemon juice enhances the bright, citrusy notes of traditional shrimp scampi. A little zest adds even more depth to the flavor.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese – Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that signature cheesy pull, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish.

If you have a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish, it will help the pasta bake evenly while developing a perfectly crispy top.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions, but stop just shy of al dente. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, you don’t want it to become too soft. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to let it burn.

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, deglaze with white wine (or chicken broth for an alcohol-free option). Let it simmer for a couple of minutes before stirring in the lemon juice, zest, and a bit more butter to create a glossy sauce.

Combine the pasta and shrimp in a large mixing bowl, then pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together until well coated.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, then top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the cheese sets just enough to give you that perfect forkful of pasta, shrimp, and gooey cheese in every bite.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully for easy meals throughout the week.

For the refrigerator, transfer the pasta bake to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the cheese won’t be quite as crispy.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs.

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.

If you love extra veggies, toss in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms when cooking the shrimp. They’ll add both color and extra nutrients.

For a low-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Bake for slightly less time to avoid overcooking.

To make it dairy-free, use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese substitutes. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without actual cheese.

Prefer a different protein? Try chicken, scallops, or even crab instead of shrimp. They all pair wonderfully with the buttery, garlicky sauce.

No matter how you make it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try and enjoy a dish that’s both elegant and comforting in every bite!

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