If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both indulgently creamy and bursting with bright, garlicky flavor, the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe is here to wow your taste buds. This dish brings together tender shrimp nestled in a luscious, cheesy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, finished off with a crunchy golden breadcrumb topping. It’s a comforting and elegant meal that feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a reliable favorite for your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the shrimp adds a fresh, ocean-kissed taste, creamy cheeses provide that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, and herbs and seasonings keep everything lively and satisfying. You’ll find these pantry staples come together effortlessly to create a stunning dish.
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Make sure they’re fresh or properly thawed for the best texture.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli): These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter, preventing it from burning while adding depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that sets the shrimp scampi apart with its aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat): A subtle heat that complements the garlicky shrimp without overwhelming it.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly creamy sauce that hugs every piece of pasta and shrimp.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory notes and helps thin out the cream into a silky sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty, and essential for the sauce’s depth and the topping.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings gooey, stringy texture and melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and enhances every flavor in the bake.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor.
- Lemon wedges, for serving: Brightens the entire dish with just a squeeze before eating.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): For the crunchy, golden topping that adds texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Mix with breadcrumbs for that perfectly crisp crust.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Added to the breadcrumb mix for extra cheesiness on top.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your chosen pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. This step ensures the pasta has just the right bite — not too soft — so it won’t turn mushy when baked later. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with the creamy sauce and shrimp.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter together with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice) and sauté for just a couple of minutes until fragrant and golden. Then toss in the shrimp, cooking them about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they become pink and opaque. Cooking shrimp this way locks in their delicate sweetness — just don’t overcook!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Keeping those scrumptious shrimp aside, pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for about 5 minutes. This step intensifies the flavors and thickens the sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in both Parmesan and mozzarella cheese slowly until melted and velvety smooth — this is the heart of the dish’s creamy goodness.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently toss together the cooked pasta, shrimp, and cheesy cream sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan, then sprinkle this golden topping evenly over the pasta. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is perfectly crispy and the pasta bake bubbles with cheesy delight.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once out of the oven, give the dish a few minutes to set up so it holds its shape when served. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color, and don’t forget those lemon wedges on the side – they add the perfect zing to balance the creamy sauce.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten up the plate visually and add a refreshing herbaceous contrast. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan over the top right before serving will keep the cheesy vibes going strong. And always have lemon wedges ready; a quick squeeze adds a fantastic pop that lifts the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe pairs wonderfully with something light and green to balance all that creaminess. Think simple mixed greens with a lemony vinaigrette, or sautéed asparagus and garlic. A crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce too!
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, serve the pasta bake straight from the casserole dish placed at the center of the table. To impress guests, spoon it into individual ramekins and garnish with a sprig of parsley and delicate lemon zest curls. You can even layer in some roasted cherry tomatoes or sprinkle chili flakes on top for a colorful, spicy twist that makes the dish your own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making it taste even better the next day!
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, this pasta bake can be frozen if needed. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 1 month in the freezer. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the top re-crisps beautifully. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, giving it a stir halfway through to evenly heat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish. This will keep your sauce nice and creamy.
What pasta shape works best for the bake?
Penne, rotini, or fusilli are ideal because their ridges and twists hold onto the sauce wonderfully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Avoid thin spaghetti, as it doesn’t bake as well in casseroles.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheeses, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will change. The cheese and cream are key to the dish’s creamy, rich experience.
Is the red pepper flakes necessary?
Not at all! Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that balances the richness, but if you prefer mild flavors, you can omit them without losing the essence of the dish.
How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?
Using frozen shrimp and a mix of more affordable cheeses can help. You might also swap chicken broth with vegetable broth or water plus seasoning, and use pantry staples you already have. The flavors remain delightful!
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the best of cozy comfort food with elegant seafood flair. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers satisfying layers of flavor with minimal fuss. So go ahead, dive into this creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked pasta masterpiece — I promise it’ll become one of your all-time favorites!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a creamy, flavorful, and easy dinner recipe combining succulent shrimp with a rich garlic cream sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy cheesy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this baked dish brings together the best of shrimp scampi and baked pasta in one satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
Sauce and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping and Garnish
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside to use later in the bake.
- Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine and Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and creamy sauce until well combined. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta and shrimp casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp that is peeled and deveined for convenience and best texture.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor or to accommodate dietary preferences.
- For an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer, you can swap out mozzarella cheese for provolone or fontina for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce thicken up slightly and makes serving easier.
