Introduction

If you’ve ever wished you could take the buttery, garlicky magic of classic shrimp scampi and turn it into a bubbly, oven-baked comfort meal, this Savory Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is exactly what you’ve been craving.

Imagine tender shrimp tossed in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, combined with al dente pasta, creamy Parmesan, and a hint of lemon — all baked until golden and slightly crisp on top. It’s cozy, elegant, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for those chilly nights when you want something indulgent yet easy.

The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter fills the kitchen, the bubbling cheese crust turns golden in the oven, and that first creamy bite instantly wraps you in comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a date-night meal, or a cozy weekend indulgence, this shrimp scampi bake brings restaurant-level flavor to your home table — with just one casserole dish.

Let’s dive in and create this dreamy pasta bake together!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🧈 Garlicky, buttery goodness in every bite.
• 🍤 Juicy shrimp perfectly baked in a rich scampi-style sauce.
• 🧀 Cheesy and creamy, yet lightened up with lemon and herbs.
• ⏱️ Easy prep: Just sauté, mix, and bake — done in under 45 minutes.
• 🍋 Perfect balance: Zesty, savory, and comforting all at once.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family favorite: Crowd-pleasing flavor that feels fancy but simple.

If you love shrimp pasta, baked casseroles, and cozy comfort food, this recipe will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

---

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz (340g) linguine or penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 4 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ½ tsp salt, more to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

For the Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.

💡 Pro Tip: Undercooking the pasta slightly helps it stay firm after baking.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2 minutes per side — just until pink and slightly curled. Remove and set aside.

⚠️ Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp now — they’ll finish in the oven later.

---

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons butter with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until reduced slightly.

---

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

---

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy garlic sauce.

💡 Optional: Add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

---

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a lightly greased baking dish (9×13-inch works well).
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, butter, Parmesan, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

---

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

🔥 Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, broil the top for 1–2 minutes at the end — watch closely!

---

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately and watch it disappear! 🍋✨

---

Tips for Success

1. Use large shrimp — they stay juicy and don’t dry out when baked.
2. Don’t overbake! The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
3. Use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
4. Add a splash of pasta water if your sauce feels too thick before baking.
5. Balance flavors: A little lemon cuts the richness perfectly.

---

Variations & Substitutions

• Garlic Lover’s Version: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder for double flavor.
• Tomato Twist: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomato halves before baking.
• Extra Cheesy: Add cream cheese or ricotta for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Herb Infusion: Try basil, thyme, or dill for fresh aromatic notes.
• Seafood Mix: Use a combo of shrimp, scallops, and crab for a seafood medley.

---

What to Serve With It

Pair your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the sauce.
• Crisp Caesar salad or lemony arugula salad.
• Glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Light dessert — think lemon bars or panna cotta.

It’s an elegant dinner that feels special yet effortless — perfect for cozy evenings in.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (wrap tightly in foil).
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

💡 Tip: Avoid microwaving for too long — shrimp can toughen if overheated.

---

Nutrition (Per Serving)

(Makes 6 servings)

• Calories: 465
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the shrimp: Always bake just until opaque.
2. Adding too much lemon: A little goes a long way — balance is key.
3. Using low-fat cream: It can curdle when baked; use heavy cream for smoothness.
4. Skipping the breadcrumb topping: It’s the golden crunch that makes the dish irresistible!

---

FAQ

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely — just thaw, pat dry, and cook as directed.

Q: What pasta works best?
Linguine, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce beautifully.

Q: Can I make it without cream?
Yes — use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for thickness.

Q: How do I make it spicy?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

---

Conclusion

This Savory Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings everything you love about shrimp scampi — garlicky butter, bright lemon, and tender shrimp — and wraps it up in a creamy, cheesy baked pasta that’s comfort food perfection.

It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for company — the ultimate cozy dinner night recipe.

Try it tonight, and let the golden, Blackened Salmon Recipe!