There’s something irresistible about combining shrimp, pasta, and a creamy lemon-garlic sauce.
This shrimp scampi pasta bake takes a classic seafood dish and transforms it into a warm, cheesy comfort meal that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a one-pan comfort food that brings together creamy pasta and juicy shrimp.
The lemon-garlic flavor keeps it fresh while Parmesan adds richness.
Easy to prepare in under an hour, with simple ingredients.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Large shrimp cook quickly and absorb the garlic-lemon flavors beautifully.
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the creamy sauce well.
Garlic and lemon juice brighten the dish and balance the richness.
Heavy cream and Parmesan create a luscious, cheesy sauce.
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness at the end.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should just turn pink.
Cook pasta slightly under al dente since it continues baking in the oven.
Reserve a bit of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
Grate Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and melting.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Step 1 – Cook the pasta
Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the shrimp
Melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic, then cook shrimp with salt and pepper until just pink.
Step 3 – Make the sauce
Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer briefly to thicken.
Step 4 – Combine with pasta
Mix pasta with the shrimp mixture, parsley, and half the Parmesan.
Step 5 – Bake
Transfer to a greased dish, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with garlic bread or focaccia for soaking up sauce.
Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Add roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap shrimp for scallops, crab, or chicken.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until warmed through.
Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Do I need to devein shrimp?
It’s recommended for cleaner flavor and presentation.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked, then bake when ready to serve.
Can I use spaghetti instead of penne?
Yes, but short pasta holds the sauce better.
How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Cover with foil while reheating and add a splash of cream or broth.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Absolutely—spinach, zucchini, or broccoli work well.
Is this dish spicy?
Only if you add red pepper flakes; you can adjust to taste.
What cheese works besides Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or mozzarella can be used for variation.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust bake time slightly.
What wine pairs best with shrimp scampi pasta bake?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp scampi pasta bake is the perfect balance of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and cheesy comfort.
It’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together with ease—ideal for both weeknights and special dinners.
