Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Garlic Butter Flavor

Introduction

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines the classic flavors of garlic butter shrimp with tender pasta and a golden, cheesy baked topping. This comforting dish is loved throughout American kitchens because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients. The juicy shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and bubbling cheese create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Every bite offers a delicious balance of savory seafood, creamy texture, and bright lemon-garlic notes.

Recipe Details

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional Ingredients

  • ½ cup sautéed spinach
  • ½ cup diced cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup white wine
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Easy Substitutions

  • Use rotini or rigatoni instead of penne.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or provolone.
  • Use frozen shrimp, thawed completely before cooking.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta

Cook the penne in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

  1. Cook the Shrimp

Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.

  1. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

  1. Assemble the Bake

Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, sauce, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, and parsley in a large bowl. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  1. Add Cheese and Bake

Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake for 18–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips

  • Avoid overcooking shrimp; they finish cooking in the oven.
  • Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • Cook pasta slightly firm to prevent a mushy casserole.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overbaking the dish, which can toughen the shrimp.
  • Adding too much liquid, resulting in a watery bake.
  • Using fully cooked pasta before baking.
  • Skipping the resting time after baking.

What to Expect

This pasta bake has a rich, buttery garlic aroma with hints of lemon and Parmesan. The shrimp remain tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs the creamy scampi sauce. The top develops a lightly golden, cheesy crust that adds wonderful texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

  • Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, covered with foil.

Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Caesar salad
  • Roasted asparagus
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette

The combination of creamy pasta, succulent shrimp, and cheesy topping makes this dish a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any meal. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this comforting baked pasta delivers classic American comfort food with elegant seafood flavor.

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