Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ~ TO BE TASTY

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish is a true comfort food favorite. The shrimp is juicy and flavorful, the sauce is garlicky and buttery, and the hint of lemon balances everything out. Topped with melted mozzarella and a crunchy breadcrumb crust, this pasta bake is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family. The recipe is simple, customizable, and made to serve multiple people, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Shrimp: 1 lb (large, peeled, deveined)
Pasta: 12 oz (linguine or spaghetti)
Unsalted Butter: 4 tbsp
Garlic: 4 cloves (minced)
Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp
White Wine or Broth: ½ cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (grated)
Shredded Mozzarella: 1 cup
Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2:
Cook 12 oz of pasta (linguine or spaghetti) in salted water until it’s just al dente. Set aside ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3:
While the pasta cooks, heat 4 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4:
Add 1.5 lbs of peeled shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5:
Pour in ½ cup of white wine (or broth) and 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 6:
Add 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to make a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 7:
Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8:
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated parmesan over the top, then add ¼ cup of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Step 9:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Storage Options for Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly for later enjoyment.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 4-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven on low heat to keep the texture intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the dish tightly in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

Protein Swaps: If you don’t have shrimp, you can use chicken or scallops. Tofu also works for a plant-based version.
Vegetarian Options: Replace shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a fresh twist.
Low-Carb Options: Try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the buttery, garlicky sauce.
Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with arugula or spinach complements the richness of the pasta.
Lemon Butter Pasta: A simple side of lemon butter pasta can add another layer of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for a healthy, savory side.

Best Occasions for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish is perfect for many occasions:

Family Dinners: An easy-to-make meal that everyone will enjoy.
Dinner Parties: Serve as a show-stopping main dish at a gathering.
Holiday Meals: It’s a hit during special events like Christmas or Easter.
Potlucks: This is a dish that travels well and serves many.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 632 kcal
Total Fat: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 31 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg
Sodium: 850 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the kind of dish that feels like a treat every time you make it. The shrimp, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping create a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or just because you want something special, this dish will make any meal memorable.

Enjoy this delicious shrimp scampi bake—it's sure to become a favorite in your home!