Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and succulent shrimp that has become a staple in my kitchen. This dish combines the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting texture of a baked pasta casserole. The first bite reveals a deliciously rich garlic-butter flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests. With its ease of preparation and satisfying taste, it’s hard not to fall in love with this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

There are countless reasons to adore this shrimp scampi casserole. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the creamy texture and cheesy topping create a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Third, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or seafood for added nutrition. Fourth, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings. Fifth, you can make it ahead of time and simply bake it when needed. Lastly, the combination of garlic and lemon gives it a refreshing flavor that will delight your taste buds. It’s truly a shrimp pasta bake worth trying!

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Gather these items:

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne pasta until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add heavy cream, bring to a simmer while stirring continuously.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Step 7: Transfer pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shrimp and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 9: Let rest for 5–10 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for weeknight meals or dinner parties.
This recipe can be customized with different seafood or vegetables.
Consider adding a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch!

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

For a delightful meal, serve this baked shrimp scampi dish with a side salad or garlic bread. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine to complement the flavors.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: 6 Reasons to Indulge Tonight - Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This is a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

What is shrimp scampi pasta bake?

The shrimp scampi pasta bake is a comforting dish that combines shrimp, pasta, and a creamy garlic sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a delicious twist on traditional shrimp scampi.

Can I make shrimp scampi pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shrimp scampi baked recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

How do I avoid common mistakes with shrimp scampi pasta bake?

To ensure success, avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can become tough. Also, make sure not to overbake the dish; it should be golden and bubbly but not dry.

Variations of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake You Can Try

Feel free to explore variations such as adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a healthy twist. You can also try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier shrimp scampi pasta bake option or substitute shrimp with chicken for different flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for dessert. If you’re looking for a comforting soup, cheesy chicken noodle soup is a great option!

For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, you can visit Healthline.