Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you love the buttery, garlicky flavor of classic shrimp scampi but crave something heartier and comforting, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your dream dinner come true. It’s everything you love about the original dish—tender shrimp, garlic, lemon, and herbs—combined with pasta, melted cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping.

This baked version is rich and satisfying yet surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, prepping ahead, or upgrading your weeknight pasta game with elegance and bold flavor.

???? Ingredients (U.S. Measurements)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne or ziti pasta
• Salted water, for boiling

For the Scampi Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

For the Bake:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for topping)
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges (for garnish)

???? Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Scampi Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Pour in the wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape up the brown bits from the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce. Stir in remaining butter, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce and toss everything together until coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the pasta.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the top is golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

???? Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on ingredients and brands used.

???? Tips & Tricks

• Use Raw Shrimp: Avoid pre-cooked shrimp—they’ll become rubbery when baked. Start with raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if needed.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Cheese Swap: Try fontina or provolone for a gooier cheese pull.
• Wine-Free Version: Use chicken broth and a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy balance without alcohol.

???? Chef’s Extra Touch (From Me to You)

For restaurant-style flavor, drizzle truffle oil over the finished bake or fold in sautéed mushrooms or spinach before baking. These earthy and fresh additions will add layers of complexity that elevate the dish from comforting to gourmet.