Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Oven-Baked Perfection

Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and parmesan); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

August 25, 2025

Updated:

August 25, 2025

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy Garlicky Oven Baked Perfection is a dish that will make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. Picture this: golden shrimp glistening in a bath of creamy garlic sauce, mingling with tender pasta, topped with a blanket of bubbly cheese. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist sneaking a forkful before it even reaches the table.

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a weekend gathering. I still remember the first time I made this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how cheesy and garlicky it was. It quickly became a staple in my household, and now whenever I whip it up, I know I’m in for some serious compliments.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying

Its rich flavors will transport you straight to Italy while providing visual appeal that dazzles on any dinner table
Perfect for leftovers, this dish can be customized based on what ingredients you have on hand

I remember one delightful evening when I served this dish, and my friends declared me the “Pasta Queen.” There was enough cheesy goodness to feed an army, and we had seconds—okay, maybe thirds—and laughed until our stomachs hurt.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp; they add a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with garlic.
Pasta: Use any pasta shape you love; penne or fusilli work great for holding that cheesy sauce.

Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential here; they provide a robust flavor that can’t be replicated by powdered garlic.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creates that velvety texture we all crave in a good pasta bake.
Cheese Blend: A mix of mozzarella and parmesan gives you gooeyness with a bit of sharpness; don’t skimp on the cheese!

For the seasoning:

Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish; chop it finely for the best flavor distribution.

Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and adds a lovely zing.
Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in some heat if you enjoy a bit of spice; adjust according to your taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pasta bake gets that glorious golden top as it bakes.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta until just al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it! Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque; about 2-3 minutes should do it.

Add Cream and Cheese : Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Mix in half of your cheese blend along with lemon juice and seasonings until everything melds into an irresistible sauce.

Combine Everything : Toss your cooked pasta into the skillet with shrimp mixture. Stir gently until every noodle is coated with cheesy goodness, then transfer everything into a greased baking dish.

Bake Until Golden : Top with remaining cheese, sprinkle some parsley over it all for color, and bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You want that top bubbling and golden brown!

Now that you’ve created this masterpiece from scratch, take a moment to admire your work—it’s truly Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Cheesy Garlicky Oven Baked Perfection! Enjoy each cheesy bite while imagining yourself lounging on an Italian terrace overlooking beautiful landscapes—if only reality were so simple!

You Must Know

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines cheesy goodness with garlicky delight
Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s a dish that makes everyone feel at home

The aromas alone will have you dreaming of beachside dinners, making it an unforgettable meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then sauté the shrimp and garlic before mixing everything together. Bake until bubbly for that perfect texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add a splash of white wine for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its cheesy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use large shrimp for better texture; they hold up well during baking

Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be firm since it continues cooking in the bake
For an even cheesier dish, sprinkle more cheese on top before baking

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the room, creating lasting connections.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.

What can I substitute for pasta in this recipe?

Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash work great as low-carb alternatives.

How do I know when the pasta bake is done?

Look for a golden-brown top and bubbly cheese to indicate it’s ready to enjoy!

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