Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: 5 Comforting Reasons to Enjoy

octobre 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this shrimp scampi pasta bake! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining succulent shrimp with tender pasta and enveloped in a dreamy, creamy garlic sauce. The moment you pull it out of the oven, the aroma fills your kitchen, and trust me, it’s hard to resist diving right in! This dish has quickly become a family favorite in my house because it strikes that perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. I mean, who doesn’t love a cheesy, bubbly pasta bake? So, let’s get cooking and bring this deliciousness to your table!

shrimp scampi pasta bake - detail 1

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this scrumptious shrimp scampi pasta bake. Having your ingredients ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Use large, juicy shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose your favorite shape—both hold onto the sauce beautifully!
4 tablespoons butter: This adds richness and depth to our sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick!
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adjust to your spice preference; it adds a lovely warmth.
1 cup chicken broth: This keeps everything moist and flavorful.
1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that ties it all together!
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Make sure it’s packed for that cheesy goodness—who can resist?
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference!
Fresh parsley for garnish: It adds a pop of color and freshness!

How to Prepare Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Now that we’ve got all our ingredients at the ready, let’s get into the fun part—cooking! This shrimp scampi pasta bake is a breeze to put together, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious dish in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, we need to preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that our pasta bake starts cooking evenly right from the get-go. So, go ahead and set that temperature while we prepare the rest!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Next up, let’s cook the pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and then add your pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check your package for specifics. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t rinse it, as we want to keep that lovely starch to help the sauce stick later!

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Now, let’s create some magic in a skillet! Melt the butter over medium heat, and once it’s sizzling, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic; we just want it to be golden and aromatic. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they start curling up!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Alright, time to bring everything together! Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice to the skillet with the shrimp. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—this should take just a couple of minutes. Then, stir in your cooked pasta and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together so that every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. Trust me, it’s going to smell divine!

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

Now for the final stretch! Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top—this is going to create that delicious, bubbly crust. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. You’re going to want to keep an eye on it as it bakes because that golden crust is calling your name!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your shrimp scampi pasta bake is nothing short of spectacular! Here are some of my top tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly:

Use large shrimp: They not only have a better texture, but they also stand up nicely against the pasta and sauce, giving you that satisfying bite.
Don’t skip the garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor! If you love garlic like I do, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
Adjust the spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later if you want that extra kick!
Let it rest: Once you take it out of the oven, give it a few minutes to cool before serving. This helps the sauce thicken up a bit and makes serving easier.
Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is traditional, mixing in some mozzarella or a sprinkle of Asiago can give you a delightful twist!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to a delicious and impressive meal that everyone will love!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I love sharing recipes, it’s important to note that the nutritional information for this shrimp scampi pasta bake can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. The values I provide are estimates and should be taken as a general guideline. For a typical serving, you can expect around 600 calories, with approximately 30g of fat, 25g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Remember, if you make substitutions or adjustments, the nutrition can change, so always keep that in mind. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious creation!

FAQ Section

I’m so glad you’re diving into this shrimp scampi pasta bake adventure! Here are some common questions I get, along with my answers to help you along the way:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. I usually let them sit in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No worries! You can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

You bet! Tossing in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli can add a lovely touch of color and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly with the shrimp for best results.

How long can I store leftovers?

This pasta bake is great for leftovers! You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I love using penne or fusilli as they hold onto the sauce beautifully, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand! Just make sure it’s a shape that can trap that delicious sauce.

How do I know when the bake is done?

Keep an eye on it! You’ll want it to be bubbly and golden on top, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven. If you see that lovely crust, you’re good to go!

Got more questions? I’m here to help! Don’t hesitate to reach out, and happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, shrimp, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Comforting Meal: This shrimp scampi pasta bake is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone with its deliciousness!
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when you’re ready—perfect for entertaining or meal prepping!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep that delicious shrimp scampi pasta bake fresh and ready for your next meal! Proper storage is key to enjoying those tasty leftovers. Here’s how you can do it:

Once your pasta bake has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the fridge and enjoy it within 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should hold up well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to dig in again, here’s how to reheat it:

For Refrigerated Leftovers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
For Frozen Leftovers: It’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as above. If you’re in a rush, you can reheat it directly from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time, keeping it covered with foil until warmed through.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of this delightful dish. Enjoy your shrimp scampi pasta bake, even on those busy days!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.