If you adore the irresistible combination of succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, then this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite comfort meal. This dish takes the classic flavors of shrimp scampi and elevates them into a cozy, cheesy bake that’s ideal for sharing with family and friends. With tender rigatoni enveloped in buttery garlic sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and a golden breadcrumb crust, every bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and savory goodness that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Each component brings its own magic: pasta for hearty texture, shrimp for sweetness, and cheeses for that irresistible melty finish.
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta: These tubular shapes hold the sauce beautifully and give a satisfying bite.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp add a delicate seafood flavor and tender protein.
- 4 tbsp butter: Essential for building that rich, buttery scampi sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic, savory punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend that adds herbaceous notes to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fundamental for seasoning and bringing out all flavors.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to create a gooey, golden topping that everyone loves.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh color and mild herbal flavor.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional): Gives a crisp, crunchy crust for delightful texture contrast.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your rigatoni or penne in salted water until just al dente so it holds up beautifully in the bake without going mushy. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Sauté them in butter over medium heat until they turn pink and are cooked through—this only takes a few minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and keep them warm for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt more butter and gently cook the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning, then simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes luscious.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly with that wonderful garlicky creaminess.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Dish
Transfer everything into a greased, oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top, followed by the panko breadcrumbs for that amazing crunchy topping. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown—about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for an inviting burst of green and a fresh herbal aroma that perfectly balances the richness.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds color and brightness. For an extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and lightens the richness of the cream and cheese.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add freshness and a bit of crunch. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complement the meal well by helping to scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe family-style right from the baking dish for a cozy, casual meal. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley, adding a lemon wedge on the side for a bright finish. You can even turn leftovers into a delicious seafood pasta frittata the next day!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld even more once the dish has rested, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a longer period, this pasta bake freezes beautifully. Freeze it before baking in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel covering to keep the pasta moist and creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne work particularly well for holding the sauce, you can use other sturdy pasta shapes like ziti, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t become too soft in the bake.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water, which can dilute the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free cream substitute. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your taste. Leaving them out yields a mild, creamy dish that’s perfect for everyone, while adding them gives a gentle warming kick.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and shrimp in advance, prepare the sauce, and store everything separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine everything and proceed with assembling and baking for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible blend of buttery shrimp, creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it brings warmth and comfort to the table with every savory bite. Give it a whirl soon—you’ll be making it again and again!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A rich and comforting Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combining tender pasta, succulent sautéed shrimp, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni or penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth and cream.
- To make it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture, or omit for a softer topping.
- If you prefer, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp in the skillet to keep them tender and juicy.
