Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – Cheesy Garlic Bliss in One Dish! 🍤🧄🧀

Hello, my friend! If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the garlicky, buttery magic of shrimp scampi with the comfort of a cheesy baked pasta, you’re in for a treat. This shrimp scampi pasta bake is one of those dishes I love making when I want something hearty and cozy but still elegant enough to impress guests. Juicy shrimp, tender pasta, a creamy garlicky sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping—what’s not to love? It’s basically comfort food with a fancy twist!

Why This Recipe Works

Shrimp scampi on its own is already a classic, but turning it into a baked pasta dish makes it even more irresistible. The pasta soaks up all that garlicky, buttery goodness, and the oven transforms everything into a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece. You still get the brightness of lemon and parsley, balanced with the richness of cheese and cream. It’s a dish that brings both comfort and flavor to the table in a big way.

Nutritional Benefits

Here’s the good news: this dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Shrimp is low in calories but high in lean protein, selenium, and vitamin B12. Garlic supports immunity and heart health, while parsley adds antioxidants and freshness. Yes, the cheese and cream make it indulgent, but that’s what makes it so satisfying. Pairing it with a side salad makes this a well-rounded meal you’ll feel good about serving.

Tasty Variations You Can Try

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese a bit for a lighter bake.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for added nutrients and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
• Different Cheese: Mozzarella gives a gooey finish, but Parmesan or Asiago adds sharpness. Mix and match to your taste!

The Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, ziti, or linguine work great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. Let simmer for 3 minutes.
6. Pour in cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated.
8. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so pull them off the heat as soon as they turn pink. They’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Wine or Broth: White wine adds classic scampi flavor, but chicken broth keeps it family-friendly.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Perfect Pairing: A crisp green salad or roasted asparagus makes the perfect side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. Do I need to cook the pasta fully before baking? Cook it until al dente since it will finish in the oven.
3. Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, linguine, or even spaghetti all work well.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Final Thoughts

This shrimp scampi pasta bake is everything I love in a comfort meal—garlicky, cheesy, hearty, and just a little bit fancy. It’s the kind of dish that makes an ordinary night feel special, and it never fails to get compliments when I make it for friends or family. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out for you! And don’t forget—pin it on Pinterest so you always have this cheesy garlic bliss ready for your next dinner craving. 🍤🧄🧀