Dinner

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Bylina moretti December 30, 2025December 30, 2025

Introduction

Savor the rich flavors of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, a perfect blend of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Easy to prepare and full of comforting taste, it’s a great dish for weeknights or casual gatherings.

A white baking dish filled with creamy pasta layered with melted cheese and topped with cooked, pink shrimp evenly placed on top. The creamy sauce covers the yellow pasta, creating a smooth texture under the shrimp. Small green herb pieces are scattered on the surface, adding a touch of color and freshness. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and the overall appearance is warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant without burning the garlic.
Step 4: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine; simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce mixture ensuring even coating, then transfer into the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta bake, and serve hot for cheesy, garlicky enjoyment.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering.
Substitute shrimp with scallops or chunks of chicken if preferred.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Garnish with lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

How to Serve

The image shows a white baking dish filled with a layered shrimp pasta bake. The bottom layer is pasta, light yellow in color, covered by a creamy white sauce mixed with melted cheese that looks slightly golden and bubbly on top. On the top layer, there are arranged cooked shrimp that are pink-orange with a slight shine. Small green herbs are sprinkled evenly over the dish. The baking dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the pasta bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.