This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings together succulent shrimp, rich cream, and gooey melted cheese for the perfect comfort meal. The garlic and red pepper flakes give it just the right amount of zing, while the Parmesan and mozzarella create a bubbly, golden crust on top.
With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The shrimp adds a fresh, ocean-inspired taste, while the pasta absorbs all the creamy goodness of the sauce. It’s an ideal dish for cozy nights in, yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy a flavorful, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Perfectly Creamy and Cheesy Comfort Meal
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, buttery sauce and the perfect pairing of garlic, shrimp, and pasta. The recipe combines bold flavors with a creamy texture, creating a delightful dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. But what if you could take this beloved classic to the next level? Enter the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake — a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of shrimp scampi and the cheesy, golden deliciousness of baked pasta.
In this article, we dive into why this baked version of the classic shrimp scampi will become your go-to dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to family gatherings. The combination of perfectly cooked shrimp, al dente pasta, and gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Will Become a Favorite
If you’re a fan of seafood and pasta, then this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a dream come true. It brings the flavors of shrimp scampi into a comforting baked pasta dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re looking to serve a meal that’s both filling and indulgent. What sets this baked pasta dish apart from traditional shrimp scampi is its versatility. The creamy sauce envelops each pasta piece, creating a rich, cheesy experience. Plus, the bake provides the added bonus of a golden, bubbly top, making every bite both crispy and creamy.
The appeal of this dish lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the pasta perfectly al dente, and the cheese adds that melty, comforting touch. The garlic-infused cream sauce gives a rich and velvety flavor, while the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat to complement the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone who prefers heartier dishes, this pasta bake will satisfy your cravings.
A Dish That’s Easy to Make and Always Impressive
One of the best things about this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is how easy it is to make. While it might look and taste like something you’d order at a fancy Italian restaurant, the recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. In less than an hour, you can have a piping hot, cheesy pasta bake on the table that will wow your guests or your family. There’s no need to stress over complicated steps or ingredients — this dish uses simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
The simplicity of the dish makes it a great choice for a busy weeknight dinner or when you want to prepare something a bit more special without a lot of fuss. It’s also the perfect dish to make ahead of time. Simply assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an ideal option for meal prepping or when you want to have a delicious homemade meal waiting for you at the end of a long day.
The Versatility of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is highly adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs. While shrimp is the star of the show, you can swap it out for other seafood options like scallops, crab, or lobster. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, try using vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant in place of the shrimp. You can also experiment with different types of pasta — penne is a great choice, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work just as well.
For those looking to lighten the dish up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative. If you prefer a dairy-free version, simply use non-dairy cheese and a plant-based cream. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility — you can make adjustments to fit your taste and dietary preferences while still maintaining the rich, satisfying essence of the dish.
Pairing the Dish: What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A dish this indulgent deserves to be paired with something that complements its richness. A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect accompaniment to balance out the creamy pasta. Consider a simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, topped with a light vinaigrette dressing. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the pasta and shrimp, making each bite feel fresh and vibrant.
For bread lovers, a loaf of warm, crusty garlic bread would be an excellent choice. The garlic flavor would tie in beautifully with the shrimp scampi, and the bread can be used to scoop up any leftover sauce. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, would also be a great pairing, enhancing the flavors of the seafood and creamy sauce.
If you’re looking to make the meal even more filling, a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or roasted carrots would complement the dish perfectly. These vegetables will add color, texture, and a lightness that will balance the richness of the pasta bake.
A Show-Stopping Dish for Any Occasion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake isn’t just for family dinners — it’s the perfect show-stopper for any special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a holiday gathering, or a special celebration, this dish will steal the spotlight. It’s easy to make in large batches, and everyone will love its creamy, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main course for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and baking it in a larger dish. The creamy shrimp scampi sauce will coat every bite of pasta and shrimp, ensuring that your guests enjoy a full and satisfying meal. The golden cheese topping and aromatic garlic fragrance will fill the room, creating an inviting atmosphere that will make your guests eager to dig in.
Why You’ll Love the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
What’s not to love about Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake? It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness, making it a must-try for anyone who loves shrimp and pasta. This dish has all the elements of comfort food — rich flavors, satisfying textures, and an indulgent feel — but it’s simple enough to prepare on any weeknight.
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the warmth and indulgence of baked pasta with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, this is the one. It’s an easy, yet impressive recipe that’s perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a meal for guests, Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and melted cheese combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta bake will never disappoint. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and undeniable flavor make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
So the next time you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying, look no further than this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. It’s a dish that combines the best of shrimp scampi and baked pasta, resulting in a meal that’s guaranteed to please your taste buds. Give it a try, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, creamy, and cheesy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.