Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

A Baked Twist on a Classic Shrimp Scampi Dish

If you love shrimp scampi, get ready to take it up a notch with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! This dish combines all the flavors of classic shrimp scampi—buttery garlic shrimp, lemon, and white wine—but transforms it into a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish.

This easy-to-make baked pasta is perfect for weeknights, date nights, or entertaining guests. Tossed with a homemade garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection with mozzarella and Parmesan, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, this pasta is pure indulgence in every bite.

---

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300g penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Shrimp Scampi Sauce:

• 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 100ml dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 50ml)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Cheese Mixture:

• 200ml heavy cream
• 100g cream cheese
• 80g grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 150g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 30g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, for garnish

---

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
3. Reserve 100ml of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in the shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the pan to deglaze. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stir in the lemon zest and fresh parsley, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, add heavy cream and cream cheese.
2. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, shrimp scampi sauce, and creamy cheese sauce.
3. Spread evenly and top with shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
2. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

• Calories: 680 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fats: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.

---

Tips & Tricks for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

✨ Use fresh shrimp – Fresh, wild-caught shrimp will add better flavor compared to frozen shrimp.

✨ Don’t overcook the shrimp – Cook just until pink, as they will continue cooking in the oven.

✨ Enhance the flavor – Add a splash of white wine or lemon zest for extra brightness.

✨ Make it lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and cream cheese for Greek yogurt to reduce calories.

✨ Customize it – Add baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra texture.

✨ Make it ahead – Assemble everything a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Packed with Garlic Butter Flavor – Inspired by classic shrimp scampi.
✔ Rich & Creamy – A cheesy pasta bake with the perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Easy to Make – No fancy ingredients, ready in under 45 minutes.
✔ Perfect for Special Occasions – A great holiday or date night dish.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for meal prep or freezing.