Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – Cheesy, Garlicky, and Oh-So-Easy!

Get ready to fall head over heels for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – this bubbly, cheesy, garlicky dish is pure comfort with a twist of elegance, and Oh-So-Easy! Imagine golden shrimp tucked in velvety sauce, vibrant pasta, a whisper of lemon, and gooey cheese all baked to perfection. It checks every box for weeknight ease and weekend wow-factor, making it a must-try for both casual family meals and impressing last-minute dinner guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What really sets this pasta bake apart is how just a few, well-chosen ingredients can bring a restaurant-quality meal into your cozy kitchen. Each element is simple but totally essential, building layers of flavor, color, and creamy texture that make this dish unforgettable.

• Pasta (12 oz): Penne, ziti, or fettuccine—pick your favorite shape to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Large Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for easy eating; they turn tender and juicy as they bake.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and depth, helping to sauté the garlic and shrimp perfectly.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): An essential for both flavor and preventing sticking when sautéing.
• Minced Garlic (4 cloves): Fresh garlic is the secret to scampi’s bold, savory aroma.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional): For just a little heat, totally customizable depending on your preference.
• Dry White Wine (½ cup): Or chicken broth—deglazes the pan, building a bright, tangy foundation for the sauce.
• Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon): Brightens up the rich, creamy flavors with a sunny zing.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors throughout the dish.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds gentle heat and balance.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that supplies classic comfort and aroma.
• Shredded Mozzarella (2 cups): For that gooey, golden top everyone loves in a pasta bake.
• Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Sharp and nutty, it deepens the cheesy experience.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp): Chopped for sprinkling—adds a burst of color and fresh flavor right before serving.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Or half-and-half for a lighter sauce—brings luxurious creaminess to every bite.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup): Rounds out the sauce without making it too heavy.
• Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Layers even more warmth into the baked sauce.
• Nutmeg (¼ tsp, optional): A pinch adds surprising depth and a hint of old-world comfort.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – Cheesy, Garlicky, and Oh-So-Easy!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water—your pasta is the base of everything, so don’t skimp on flavor here. Cook it 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions; the magic happens in the oven, so you want your pasta just tender enough to finish soaking up all that creamy sauce as it bakes.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet until melty and fragrant. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and, if you like a little kick, red pepper flakes. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes on each side—just until they turn pink and opaque. Set the shrimp aside for now; you’ll bring them back into the mix soon for that melt-in-your-mouth finish.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

Without cleaning your skillet (all those flavorful bits count!), add the minced garlic and gently sauté for about 30 seconds. Now pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with lemon juice, scraping up the goodness from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce smells incredible and is slightly reduced.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Here’s where the and Oh-So-Easy! factor kicks in: Stir in the heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a lighter touch), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and just a pinch of nutmeg. Allow it all to simmer for 3–4 minutes, gently thickening into the creamy, dreamy base your pasta and shrimp are waiting for.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Add the cooked pasta and those plump shrimp right into the skillet, gently tossing to coat everything evenly in sauce. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then blanket the top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Pop it into a 375°F (190°C) oven for around 15 minutes—just until the cheese melts and bubbles, turning gorgeously golden.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Pull your bubbly masterpiece out of the oven, sprinkle with a generous handful of fresh parsley, and call everyone to the table! The aroma is irresistible, the cheese is perfectly gooey, and the flavors are out of this world. You’re about to see why this dish is officially and Oh-So-Easy! in every single bite.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – Cheesy, Garlicky, and Oh-So-Easy!

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley across the top adds brightness and eye-catching color to every serving. For an extra pop, try a squeeze of lemon or a touch more grated Parmesan as you plate—these take your dish from homey to restaurant-level with truly and Oh-So-Easy! flair.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake pairs so well with a crisp green salad (think arugula or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette) or garlicky sautéed veggies like asparagus or green beans. If you’re feeling extra hungry, serve with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce—simple but totally irresistible and Oh-So-Easy! on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your dish by serving individual portions in little cocottes or ramekins for a dinner party wow factor. Or, keep it informal and let everyone scoop their own from the bubbling casserole—family style always feels inviting. Another and Oh-So-Easy! twist? Top each serving with toasted panko breadcrumbs for a touch of crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for quick and Oh-So-Easy! lunches or next-day dinners loaded with flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, cool the pasta bake completely, then wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking, and add a few extra minutes in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy and Oh-So-Easy! comfort on demand.

Reheating

For the best cheesy melt, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven (covered with foil) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry—just add a splash of chicken broth to keep everything creamy and Oh-So-Easy! all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking so you get a great sear and avoid any excess water in your bake. Using frozen shrimp makes this dish even more convenient and Oh-So-Easy!

What pasta shape works best?

Penne or ziti are excellent for catching all that creamy sauce, but fettuccine works if you prefer noodles. Basically, any pasta that holds onto flavor is delicious and Oh-So-Easy! here.

Is there a substitute for wine?

Yes, you can use chicken broth in place of dry white wine for a non-alcoholic version—no flavor will be missing, and it’s just as easy.

Can I make this ahead?

Definitely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold, for a truly and Oh-So-Easy! prep-ahead dinner.

How can I make it spicier?

Just increase the red pepper flakes or try adding a pinch of cayenne when you cook the shrimp. Your dinner will have a delightfully fiery kick—and still be and Oh-So-Easy!

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake brings together everything we love: bold flavors, gooey cheese, a creamy sauce, and barely any fuss—making it the ultimate and Oh-So-Easy! comfort food. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again, whether for a cozy night in or a tableful of hungry friends. Enjoy every bite!

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