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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

4.9 from 30 reviews

Delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a creamy, garlicky white wine sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this comforting dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine work best)
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • ½ cup (125ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Creamy Bake Ingredients

  • 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ cup (125ml) chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and nutmeg if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens a bit.
  5. Assemble & Bake: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the creamy scampi sauce and toss everything together to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Remove the pasta bake from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve hot. Enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • If you do not consume alcohol, use chicken broth instead of white wine.
  • Use fresh parsley for garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
  • Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling since it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit them completely for mild flavor.
  • This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra 5 minutes to the baking time if baking chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi pasta bake, creamy shrimp pasta, baked pasta with shrimp, shrimp pasta casserole, Italian seafood bake