Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances buttery garlic goodness with the fresh, zesty bite of lemon and shrimp, then this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s a tasty twist on the classic scampi, transformed into a comforting pasta bake that’s loaded with tender shrimp, silky pasta, and plenty of cheesy, golden crust to satisfy every craving. This one-pan wonder not only looks stunning but offers layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe plays a vital role in creating its rich, vibrant flavor and delightful texture. From the fresh seafood that brings the dish to life, to the garlic and butter that infuse it with classic scampi charm, each component is simple but essential to nailing this comforting meal.

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp give the dish a sweet, tender seafood flavor that’s the star of the show.
• 1 pound pasta (linguine or fettuccine): Long, thin pasta holds onto the delicious garlic butter sauce perfectly for every bite.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base that’s essential for authentic scampi taste.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides that irresistible aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A touch of heat that livens up the buttery sauce without overpowering it.
• 1 cup white wine: Adds acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the butter and cheese.
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Provides bright, citrusy notes that enhance the seafood and cut through the richness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully on top and inside the bake for savory, cheesy goodness.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds fresh, herbal brightness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: The finishing seasoning that brings all flavors together perfectly.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven ready early ensures it’s hot and perfect when your pasta and shrimp mixture is ready to bake for that gorgeous golden finish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your chosen pasta to al dente according to the package instructions. This slight firmness means the pasta will hold up beautifully during baking and pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Then, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking just long enough for the garlic to release its fragrant aroma without burning—about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing your sauce with that iconic scampi flavor.

Step 4: Add White Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This blend adds a beautiful tanginess and layers of flavor that lift the dish from simple to spectacular.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Now it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to turn pink and opaque, signaling they’re perfectly cooked and ready to mingle with the pasta.

Step 6: Combine Cheese and Herbs

Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese along with the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mix gets the sauce extra creamy and herbaceous, building the base layer of flavor for the bake.

Step 7: Mix in the Pasta

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat every noodle in that luscious garlic butter and shrimp sauce, making sure the cheese and herbs distribute evenly throughout.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire pasta and shrimp mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese generously on top to create that irresistible golden crust once baked.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese on top to melt fully and bubble up with a lovely golden hue that signals it’s ready to devour.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh and colorful finish. Now dive in and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast to this rich dish, bringing color and a slight herbaceous note that instantly elevates the presentation and flavor. A few extra twists of black pepper or a light drizzle of lemon juice can also enhance those vibrant flavors.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake shines best alongside light, crisp sides like a simple mixed greens salad or roasted vegetables. Something fresh and crunchy, like asparagus or broccoli, helps balance out the indulgence and rounds your meal out perfectly without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, consider serving this pasta bake in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming, personalized meal. You can also top each portion with a few grilled lemon slices for added zest and eye appeal that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe here), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal that reheats beautifully.

Freezing

This pasta bake freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing the foil at the end to crisp up the cheese topping again. You can also reheat smaller portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work fine, though fresh adds the best texture and flavor.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Long, thin pasta like linguine or fettuccine pairs perfectly with the sauce and shrimp, ensuring each forkful is coated deliciously. However, you can experiment with other shapes if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The dish will still be just as flavorful and satisfying.

Is the white wine necessary?

The white wine adds a lovely tang and depth, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with low-sodium chicken broth or extra lemon juice.

How spicy is this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the garlic and lemon nicely. If you prefer less spice, just reduce or omit the flakes without affecting the overall flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate — comforting, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress friends without stress, it’s an easy recipe with big, bold flavors. Give it a try, and trust me, this one will be requested again and again in your kitchen!

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