Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible!

Looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious meal? This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on the classic shrimp scampi. With juicy shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Indulgent – A creamy garlic butter sauce combined with gooey, melted cheese makes this dish unbelievably satisfying.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
✔ Versatile – Customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or spice levels.
✔ Perfect for Guests – Whether you’re serving family, friends, or a dinner party, this dish will impress everyone.
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it great for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple yet luxurious dish comes together with everyday ingredients you likely already have!

For the Pasta Bake:

• 8 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fusilli work great)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

🌟 Cherry tomatoes – Adds a burst of sweetness
🌟 Baby spinach – Sneak in some extra greens
🌟 Artichoke hearts – A Mediterranean twist

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3️⃣ Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1️⃣ Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2️⃣ In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
3️⃣ Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4️⃣ Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1️⃣ In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
4️⃣ Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1️⃣ Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet.
2️⃣ Toss everything together in the sauce until evenly coated.
3️⃣ Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, reserving the rest for topping.
4️⃣ If using, add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or artichokes at this step.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
3️⃣ Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4️⃣ Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1️⃣ Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
2️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures:

✔ Garlic butter sauce – Provides a rich, savory base.
✔ Lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness.
✔ Perfectly cooked shrimp – Juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
✔ Al dente pasta – Soaks up all the delicious sauce.
✔ Melted cheese topping – Creates a golden, gooey layer of deliciousness.

Together, these simple elements create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant—perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for the Best Pasta Bake

✔ Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp make a huge difference in flavor.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – It will continue cooking in the oven, so keep it al dente.
✔ Let the Sauce Thicken – Simmering helps it coat the pasta beautifully.
✔ Cheese Matters – For the best melt, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded.
✔ Add a Crunch – Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish!

Make It Your Own!

Want to customize this dish? Here are some fun variations:

🌟 Make it Spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
🌟 Go Low-Carb – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
🌟 Use Different Cheese – Try Gruyère, Asiago, or even a touch of blue cheese for a unique twist.
🌟 Add Protein – Mix in grilled chicken or sausage for extra heartiness.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

✔ Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat Properly: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to keep it creamy.
✔ Make Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready!

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is rich, creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—everything you want in a comforting meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Tag me on social media with your delicious creations! 🍤🧀🍝