If you love the bright, garlicky flavors of classic shrimp scampi but want to take it up a notch, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender shrimp bathed in a luscious lemony garlic sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, baked until bubbly and topped with golden breadcrumbs and oozy cheese. It’s comfort food meets elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss. You’ll fall in love with how the creamy sauce and fresh lemon zest meld together, making every bite warm and irresistibly flavorful.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, the ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor, texture, and even a pop of color. From the succulent shrimp to the creamy half-and-half and the bright lemon zest, everything works in harmony to create a dish that feels special yet familiar.

12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi): Choose your favorite shape to hold onto all that delicious sauce perfectly.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and brings a seafood sweetness.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the shrimp to perfection.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided: Essential for the rich garlic sauce and silky texture.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Punches up the flavor with that iconic garlicky aroma.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: A subtle kick that wakes up the dish without overwhelming it.
1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and a slight acidity to balance the creaminess.
2 cups half-and-half or whole milk: Creates the luscious base of the sauce.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful but light.
1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water: Helps bring out all the natural flavors.
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Freshly cracked for the best spice touch.
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried mixed herbs: A blend that gives a hint of herbal brightness.
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: The citrusy edge that lights up the entire dish.
1 tbsp lemon zest: Adds a fresh, zesty aroma and flavor punch.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus 2 tbsp for topping: Brings a nutty, sharp undertone that complements shrimp perfectly.
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For creamy, melty goodness throughout and a bubbly golden top.
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy, buttery topping contrast.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving: For a bright, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
Lemon wedges for serving: Because we can never have too much fresh lemon on this dish.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Par-Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. While the oven warms, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until it’s just shy of al dente — about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures the pasta won’t get mushy during baking but still soaks up that creamy sauce beautifully. Drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear nicely. Toss them with just 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a subtle seasoning. Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and just start to blush pink. This quick sear locks in flavor and prevents them from becoming rubbery later. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Drop the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until the fragrant garlic fills your kitchen — the aroma will make your mouth water! Next, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer no alcohol), scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Add the chicken broth, half-and-half, remaining salt and pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly into a silky, flavorful base.

Step 4: Stir in Lemon and Cheese

Once the sauce is luscious and well combined, take it off the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This bright citrus and nutty cheese combo is the heart of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe, giving it a complex yet comforting flavor.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add your drained pasta and most of the seared shrimp into the skillet, reserving 8 to 10 shrimp for topping the bake. Toss gently to ensure every noodle is generously coated with that dreamy sauce. Sprinkle in 3/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and mix once more. This layering of creamy cheeses, tender shrimp, and pasta will create mouthwatering harmony in every bite.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the shrimp-pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Arrange the reserved shrimp beautifully on the surface for that restaurant-worthy look. Pop it in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is golden. For an extra golden crust, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let your pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes to set up perfectly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh color, and serve with lemon wedges so everyone can add an extra splash of citrus brightness. This step brings everything together for a stunning presentation and unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are classic for a reason — they brighten the rich dish and provide beautiful pops of green and yellow. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat and color. A light dusting of extra Parmesan on top can never go wrong either.

Side Dishes

This pasta bake stands strong on its own, but serves beautifully alongside simple, crisp sides like a green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted asparagus. Crusty bread is also ideal for soaking up every last bit of sauce, turning your meal into a complete, satisfying experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, bake this right in a pretty ceramic or cast iron dish and bring it straight to the table so everyone can help themselves. You can portion it out into individual ramekins for a stylish, personalized touch or create a layered trifle look by alternating pasta bake with fresh herbs in a glass dish for visual appeal before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or easy dinner option when you want comfort without the effort.

Freezing

If you want to keep this bake for longer, freezing works well too! Use a freezer-safe dish or wrap the container tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to retain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy breadcrumb topping intact.

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 prevent excess moisture, which can water down the sauce.

What if I don’t have white wine on hand?

No worries at all. You can easily substitute the white wine with low-sodium chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milk. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Is it okay to use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs?

Definitely. Gluten-free pasta works well, just watch cooking times since they may vary. For breadcrumbs, use gluten-free panko to keep the crunchy topping with your dietary needs.

Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?

For sure! You can prep the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time, then toss everything with pasta just before baking. This saves time on busy nights without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe quickly becomes a treasured go-to in your recipe collection — rich, comforting, and bursting with bright flavors that make it feel special no matter the occasion. It combines everything we love about shrimp scampi with the cozy, family-friendly appeal of a baked pasta dish. I can’t wait for you to try it, enjoy every bite, and maybe even sneak a second helping!