Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Published: April 24, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This shrimp scampi pasta bake offers effortless preparation that anyone can tackle.
The flavor profile blends buttery garlic with tender shrimp and al dente pasta, creating sheer bliss.
Visually stunning with its golden crust, it steals the show on any dinner table.
Perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests; it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The moment they took their first bite, my dad’s eyes widened in surprise, and he declared me the “Queen of Shrimp.” Not bad for someone who once burnt toast!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a hearty bite; fresh or frozen works well—just make sure they are peeled and deveined.
Pasta: I highly recommend using linguine or spaghetti; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; minced garlic adds an aromatic kick that’s hard to resist.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the flavor balance better throughout the recipe.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty richness; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath. creamy pasta dishes.
Parsley: Fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also makes your dish look like a million bucks!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This way, you won’t find yourself scrambling halfway through because you forgot the lemon!

Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and generously salt it before adding your pasta. Cook until al dente; remember to save some pasta water for later!

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. savory garlic butter tacos Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Everything: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with sautéed shrimp, lemon juice, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of reserved pasta water to create that perfect creamy consistency.

Add Topping: Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top for an irresistible crunch.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your masterpiece for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Enjoy every forkful of this delicious shrimp scampi pasta bake! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes. delicious shrimp and avocado bowls.

You Must Know

Shrimp scampi pasta bake is a delightful dish bursting with flavor.
The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen, making it irresistible.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some cheese on top for that crispy, golden finish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta until al dente while you sauté shrimp in garlic and butter. Combine everything in a baking dish, add cheese, and bake until bubbly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or veggies depending on your preference. Adding herbs like parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile remarkably.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance your shrimp scampi pasta bake, use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness.
A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce and enhances flavors beautifully.

There’s something magical about the first time I served this dish to my friends; their faces lit up, and one even asked for seconds before finishing their first plate!

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini works wonderfully as they hold onto the sauce well during baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance; just bake it right before serving for that fresh taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card