If you love classic shrimp scampi, get ready to fall hard for this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. It takes everything we adore about shrimp scampi—garlic, butter, lemon, tender shrimp—and turns it into a comforting, oven-baked pasta dish with a lightly golden top.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners that feel special, cozy family meals, or entertaining when you want something impressive without spending all night in the kitchen. It’s rich but balanced, brightened with lemon, and loaded with juicy shrimp in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Classic shrimp scampi flavors in casserole form
- Garlic-butter sauce with a touch of creaminess
- Juicy shrimp baked to perfection
- Perfect make-ahead dinner
- Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights
It’s comfort food with a restaurant-quality feel.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan for topping
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in white wine (or broth) and simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine
Add cooked pasta, shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in sauce.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle extra Parmesan over the top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Bake
- Don’t overcook shrimp before baking—they’ll finish in the oven
- Use fresh lemon for the brightest flavor
- Salt pasta water generously
- Keep sauce slightly loose before baking
Easy Variations
- Extra Creamy: Add an additional ¼ cup cream
- Cheesy: Add mozzarella or fontina to the topping
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or hearts of palm pasta
- Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes
What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Simple green salad
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli
- Steamed green beans
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 3 days
- Reheat: Oven at 325°F or microwave gently
- Freezing: Not recommended (shrimp texture may change)
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bakebrings together elegance and comfort in the best way possible. Buttery, garlicky, and bright with lemon, it’s a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy—and one that always earns rave reviews.
If you love shrimp scampi and cozy baked pastas, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.