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Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with golden crust and juicy shrimp.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake – A Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Delight!

  • Author: Mark
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course, Casserole
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish! Juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and cheesy baked pasta come together in one delicious meal.


Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 12 oz penne or linguine pasta
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1 – Preparing the Pasta

  1. Fill a large pot with water, season it generously with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite), about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions.
  3. Drain the pasta and lightly coat it with olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

Step 2 – Making the Shrimp Scampi Sauce

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then melt the butter and drizzle in the olive oil.
  2. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until aromatic (about 1 minute).
  3. Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper.
  4. Cook for a couple of minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and firm.
  5. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, letting it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in fresh parsley, then remove from heat.

Step 3 – Creating the Creamy Sauce

  1. Place a saucepan over medium heat and pour in the heavy cream.
  2. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce reaches a smooth consistency.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta and shrimp scampi sauce in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4 – Assembling the Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Pour the pasta and shrimp mixture into the dish, spreading evenly.
  4. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.
  5. Add an extra layer of mozzarella cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5 – Baking & Serving

  1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the cheese becomes bubbly.
  2. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
  3. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese, then enjoy!

Notes

  • Want extra crispiness? Broil for 2 minutes at the end of baking.
  • No wine? Substitute with chicken broth for a milder flavor.
  • Love spice? Sprinkle in additional red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
  • Avoid overcooking the shrimp! They should be pink and slightly firm, never rubbery.
  • Meal prep tip: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Keywords: shrimp scampi pasta bake, creamy shrimp pasta, cheesy pasta bake, garlic shrimp casserole, baked seafood pasta, shrimp recipes, pasta dinner, comfort food, meal prep casserole