If you’re a fan of creamy, garlicky seafood pasta, then this Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe for you! This dish takes all the delicious flavors of classic shrimp scampi and transforms it into a rich, indulgent pasta bake that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
Traditional shrimp scampi is made with butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon, but this version adds a creamy twist with heavy cream and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering baked pasta dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a dinner party, this shrimp pasta bake is guaranteed to impress.
This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake has everything you love—juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes to golden perfection. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and comes together in just 35 minutes. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is packed with rich flavors and textures that will make it an instant favorite. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Perfect Comfort Food – The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly.
- Rich & Indulgent – Unlike traditional shrimp scampi, this version adds heavy cream and melted cheese, making it extra creamy and satisfying.
- Quick & Easy to Make – With a 15-minute prep time and 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a gourmet-quality meal ready in no time.
- Versatile & Customizable – You can swap out pasta types, adjust spice levels, or even add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
- Great for Entertaining – This dish is elegant enough to impress guests while being simple enough for a casual family dinner.
- Balanced Flavors – The bright, zesty lemon and white wine (or chicken broth) cut through the richness, keeping the dish light and fresh.
- Cheesy & Golden Perfection – Topped with Parmesan and mozzarella, the baked top turns beautifully golden and bubbly, adding an irresistible crunch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble everything ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before serving.
If you love creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta dishes, this Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will be your new favorite go-to recipe!
Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake the pasta once everything is combined.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan & Prepare the Sauce
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Cream & Seasonings
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Toss the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Assemble the Pasta Bake
Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.
Step 9: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the pasta and shrimp.
Step 10: Bake the Dish
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and add more flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble everything and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing the Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with the right sides and drinks can elevate the dish and create a complete, well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: Buttery, crispy, and full of garlic flavor, garlic bread is a must-have to scoop up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine, Parmesan shavings, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes add a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple, nutritious side that pairs beautifully with the flavors of shrimp and lemon.
Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the citrusy, garlicky notes of the dish.
- Lemon-Infused Water: A simple yet refreshing option that complements the lemony flavor in the pasta.
- Sparkling Lemonade: Light and bubbly, this pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
Bread & Extras
- Bruschetta: A light tomato and basil bruschetta can be served as an appetizer before enjoying the pasta bake.
- Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy and salty, these add a fun, crisp texture to the meal.
- A Side of Marinara Sauce: For those who enjoy a touch of acidity, a small side of marinara can balance the creamy richness.
With these serving suggestions, you can turn this Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake into an unforgettable meal for any occasion!
Variations & Substitutions
- Use a Different Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work just as well.
- Try a Different Protein: Substitute chicken, scallops, or lobster for shrimp.
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add More Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of indulgent, cheesy goodness and the fresh, zesty flavors of classic shrimp scampi. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for your family, hosting a dinner with friends, or just craving a comforting pasta dish, this recipe delivers in both flavor and presentation.
The best part about this dish is how easy it is to make while still tasting like something from a high-end restaurant. With just a few simple ingredients and a short baking time, you can create a gourmet-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, the creamy sauce and cheesy topping make every bite completely irresistible.
This dish is also highly versatile, allowing you to make adjustments based on your preferences. Whether you add extra vegetables, swap out the protein, or play around with different pasta types, this shrimp pasta bake is endlessly customizable.
Make this Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake once, and it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, creating warm and delicious memories around the dinner table. So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as impressive as it is comforting!