Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

There’s something irresistibly comforting about pulling a bubbling pasta bake straight from the oven. The aroma of garlic and butter mingling with melted cheese and tender shrimp fills the kitchen, promising a meal that feels both indulgent and inviting. This Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary evening into something special, where every forkful delivers creamy pasta, golden cheese, and juicy shrimp wrapped in a symphony of flavors.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for this dish comes from the classic shrimp scampi, a beloved seafood favorite often served over pasta. But instead of stopping there, I decided to give it a cozy twist by turning it into a baked casserole. Imagine the comfort of cheesy pasta meeting the elegance of garlicky shrimp, baked until perfectly golden. It’s like your favorite restaurant dish crossed with the kind of oven-baked comfort food you crave at home.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Shrimp scampi originally hails from Italian-American kitchens. Traditionally, it featured tiny crustaceans called “scampi,” but over time, shrimp became the star of the dish. Garlic, butter, and lemon became the hallmark flavors, creating a sauce that clung to pasta in the most irresistible way. Baked versions like this one are a modern spin, marrying classic flavors with the American love for casseroles and cheesy pasta bakes.

Why You’ll Love Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

There are so many reasons this dish will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Versatile: Serve it as a weeknight dinner, a potluck centerpiece, or even a holiday side dish.

Budget-Friendly: Shrimp stretches far when baked with pasta and cheese, making this dish feel luxurious without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: With just a little prep and a short bake time, this meal comes together faster than you’d think.

Customizable: Swap pasta shapes, cheeses, or add veggies for your own spin.

Crowd-Pleasing: The cheesy, garlicky flavor profile wins hearts at the table every time.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble earlier in the day, then pop it in the oven when ready.

Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting that dreamy balance of creamy pasta and perfectly cooked shrimp is all about a few small tricks.

• Use large shrimp for juicier bites that stand out among the pasta.
• Cook the pasta slightly under al dente since it will finish baking in the oven.
• Toss shrimp in garlic butter before layering to lock in flavor.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and creaminess.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A few trusty kitchen tools make this dish come together with ease.

Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
Oven-Safe Baking Dish: A 9×13 dish works perfectly.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and shrimp.
Mixing Bowl: To combine pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and layering.

Ingredients in Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

The magic of this bake comes from the way simple ingredients work together to create bold flavors.

1. Pasta: 12 ounces penne or ziti, the sturdy shape holds sauce beautifully.
2. Shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, the star protein.
3. Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted, for rich scampi flavor.
4. Garlic: 4 cloves minced, aromatic and savory.
5. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed, for brightness.
6. Chicken Broth: 1 cup, adds depth to the sauce.
7. Heavy Cream: 1 cup, creates a velvety base.
8. Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup freshly grated, nutty and salty.
9. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded, gooey melt factor.
10. Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh, for freshness and color.
11. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, to sauté garlic and shrimp.
12. Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for balance.

Ingredient Substitutions

Cooking should be flexible, so here are some easy swaps.

Pasta: Alternative: Rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli.
Shrimp: Alternative: Scallops or chunks of white fish.
Heavy Cream: Alternative: Half-and-half or whole milk with a touch of cream cheese.
Mozzarella Cheese: Alternative: Provolone or Monterey Jack.
Parmesan Cheese: Alternative: Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp: Sweet, tender, and quick to cook, shrimp soaks up garlic butter like a sponge.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty depth that balances creamy textures and enhances the golden crust.

Instructions for Making Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Cooking this dish is straightforward, but following each step ensures perfect results.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish lightly with olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients: Boil pasta until just under al dente, then drain. In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just pink. Stir in lemon juice, chicken broth, and cream. Simmer briefly, then mix with pasta and half the cheese.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread half the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish.
4. Assemble the Dish: Layer remaining pasta mixture, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions, making sure everyone gets both shrimp and gooey cheese.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The contrast is what makes this dish unforgettable. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, the pasta absorbs creamy garlic sauce, and the cheese bakes into golden pockets of gooey, stretchy bliss. Every bite is layered with tangy lemon, nutty Parmesan, and a touch of herbal freshness from parsley.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra touches can elevate your dish even further.

• Bake uncovered for the best golden crust.
• Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for both creaminess and sharpness.

What to Avoid

Steer clear of these pitfalls to guarantee success.

• Overcooking shrimp, they become rubbery fast.
• Overbaking, pasta can dry out if left in too long.
• Using pre-shredded cheese, it won’t melt as smoothly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 480

Note These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for planning ahead. You can assemble the pasta bake earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and the bake freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Pair this bake with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread makes a natural companion, and a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn leftovers into something new and exciting.

• Stuff baked pasta into bell peppers and reheat.
• Transform into a creamy soup base with added broth.
• Rewarm and serve as a side to grilled chicken or fish.

Additional Tips

For even more flavor, zest the lemon before juicing and add it to the sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a subtle kick, and broiling the top for a few minutes adds extra golden crunch.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve this dish in a beautiful white baking dish for contrast, garnish with extra parsley, and let the melted cheese pull shine in every scoop. It’s a dish that deserves to be placed right at the center of the table.

Variations to Try

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Use crabmeat alongside shrimp for a seafood medley.
• Swap the cream sauce for a tomato-based marinara for a different twist.
• Make it spicy with crushed red pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely, assemble in the morning and bake at dinnertime.

Q3: How do I prevent watery pasta bake?

Drain pasta well and avoid adding excess liquid to the sauce.

Q4: Can I make this without cream?

Yes, use milk with a tablespoon of cream cheese for richness.

Q5: Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms pair beautifully.

Q6: How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in portions.

Q7: Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works fine, just undercook it slightly.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in two dishes if doubling for a crowd.

Q9: How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 3 days when stored properly.

Q10: Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect marriage of comfort food and restaurant-worthy flavors. With its golden top, creamy sauce, and succulent shrimp, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, worth every bite and every cheesy stretch of pasta.

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