Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the air, mingling with the rich scent of perfectly cooked shrimp. You can practically hear your taste buds doing a happy dance in anticipation. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug that wraps you in warmth, flavor, and nostalgia. Picture that golden-brown crust on top, waiting to be cracked open, revealing layers of creamy pasta and succulent shrimp beneath.

This dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember one particular family gathering where this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake took center stage. The laughter around the table was infectious as everyone dove into their servings, faces lighting up with delight. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet impressive enough to impress. Are you ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave your guests begging for the recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines ease of preparation with mouthwatering flavors that make every bite unforgettable
- Its vibrant colors and textures create an eye-catching dish that will impress any crowd
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser
Sharing this dish at our family dinner brought smiles and happy memories all around.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor; frozen works too—just thaw them beforehand.
Pasta: I recommend using linguine or fettuccine as they hold the sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key here; minced or chopped, they add depth to the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness without overwhelming it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty richness—don’t skimp on this one!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also brightens the flavor profile.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for balancing flavors and adding brightness.
Cream: A splash of heavy cream adds richness to the sauce; use sparingly if you’re watching calories.
For the Sauce:
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps things flavorful without packing on excess salt.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these if you like a kick; they give the dish some serious personality.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all those fabulous flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven : Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pasta bake cooks evenly from start to finish.
Cook the Pasta : Boil water in a large pot and add a generous pinch of salt before tossing in your pasta. Cook it until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Shrimp : In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before adding shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper until they turn pink.
Create Your Sauce : Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet with shrimp. Let it simmer until slightly reduced—around 5 minutes—before stirring in cream and red pepper flakes.
Toss Everything Together : In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with your creamy shrimp mixture. Make sure each noodle gets coated in that luscious sauce—a little love goes a long way!
Bake It Up : Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, and pop it into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Now you have an incredible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake that not only looks fantastic but tastes even better! Enjoy each cheesy bite and don’t forget to share… or not!
You Must Know
- This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines bold flavors with a comforting texture, making it an instant family favorite
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences
- The delightful aroma will have everyone gathering around the table in no time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and shrimp, then cook pasta while preparing a creamy sauce for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping shrimp for chicken or adding vegetables like spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a perfect bake, ensure pasta is al dente before mixing
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly; don’t skip them!
- Use high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture
Sharing this dish at a family gathering led to compliments and requests for seconds—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?
Yes, just thaw them before cooking to maintain ideal texture and flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Linguine or fettuccine are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day before and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, where succulent shrimp meets creamy pasta in a delightful blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan. Topped with a golden crust, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Its rich flavors and textures create a meal that’s not just delicious but also memorable. Get ready to impress your guests and savor every bite!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot; add linguine and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper until pink.
- Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice; simmer for about 5 minutes. Add cream and red pepper flakes; mix well.
- Combine cooked pasta with shrimp mixture in a bowl, ensuring even coating. Transfer to a greased baking dish; top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 210mg