Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: Cheesy, Easy & So Comforting
Something is comforting about twirling tender pasta coated in a buttery garlic sauce, especially when juicy shrimp are involved. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes everything you love, lemony brightness, a hint of heat, and rich flavor, and bakes it into one irresistible dish.
Whether you’re cooking for date night, feeding the family, or just need a comforting dinner after a long day, this recipe hits the spot. It smells amazing, tastes even better, and feels like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant, only easier and made right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cozy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, and the rest are easy to grab at any grocery store. From plump shrimp to garlic, lemon, and a handful of simple seasonings, everything works together to build bold, comforting flavor.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Time Breakdown
Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Bake Time
30-40 Minutes
Nutritional Info
Shrimp scampi pasta offers balanced flavor. Protein-rich shrimp supports healthy meal choice. Garlic and olive oil add nutrients. Lemon juice brings bright, fresh taste. Butter and cheese increase calorie content. Great for satisfying, flavorful seafood dinner.
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2.4mg
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Making this shrimp scampi pasta bake is easier than it sounds. Juicy shrimp, melted butter, and garlic come together fast. A splash of white wine and lemon juice builds flavor. Toss it with pasta, rich sauce, and red pepper flakes. This recipe brings seafood, comfort, and dinner together effortlessly.
1. Preheat Your Oven
Turn on the oven to 350°F. Get your baking dish ready nearby. Warm ovens help create a perfect crust. This sets the stage for cooking. A hot oven makes meals delicious. Now, prep the rest with ease.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks together. Once done, drain and toss gently. Use olive oil to prevent clumps. Your pasta should be firm, tender. Set aside and move to the sauce.
3. Sauté the Shrimp
Heat butter in a large skillet. Add garlic cloves and stir gently. Toss in shrimp, let them turn pink. Shrimp should cook within three minutes. This brings out a garlic-forward delight flavor. Be careful not to overcook.
4. Deglaze with Wine
Add white wine and fresh lemon juice. Scrape brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer to build flavor. This step makes a flavorful seafood dinner. Red pepper flakes can go now. Let it bubble for three minutes.
5. Make it Creamy
Lower the heat to medium cooking temperature. Stir in cheese and heavy cream. Mix until everything melts and thickens. Now add some broth if needed. The sauce should coat every pasta. You’re building a silky pasta dream.
6. Mix It All Up
Add shrimp and pasta to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is combined. Use tongs to coat each piece. Pour into a greased baking dish. This pasta dish is nearly ready. Now prepare it for the oven.
7. Top With Cheese
Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This adds that golden brown crust. Even coverage makes everything taste better. Top means crispy, melty, cheesy joy. You can add parsley or zest. Ready to bake your pasta masterpiece.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish on the middle oven rack. Bake uncovered for thirty to forty minutes. Look for golden bubbly cheese edges. Let that oven do the work. Smells like restaurant-quality flavor already cooking. Your dish is nearly dinner-ready now.
9. Garnish & Serve
Let the pasta rest for five minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley or lemon zest. Serve with crusty bread or salad. Perfect dish for busy nights ahead. Leftovers go into an airtight container. Your flavorful seafood dinner is done.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Making shrimp scampi pasta should feel easy. Use quality ingredients for bold, balanced flavor. Garlic, lemon, and butter create magic. Shrimp cooks quickly, so time matters. Creamy sauces need pasta cooked right. Follow these tips for dinner perfection.
- Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked, so they don’t dry out.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Want it extra cheesy? Mix in cream cheese or ricotta.
Serving Ideas
Serve shrimp scampi pasta hot and fresh. Pair with crusty bread for dipping. Add side salad for color contrast. A Glass of white wine elevates dinner. Sprinkle parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Perfect dish for cozy seafood nights.
- Garlic bread or focaccia.
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- A glass of chilled white wine.
Storing Leftovers
Let the shrimp pasta cool before storing. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Refrigerate leftovers for up to days. A microwave-safe dish works for reheating. Add a splash of broth to revive the sauce. Still packed with bold garlic flavor.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Conclusion
These Garlic Cheesy Chicken Wraps are everything you want in a quick meal flavorful, melty, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, packing lunches for the week, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe gets it done with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Customize it, wrap it, and enjoy every bite because cheesy garlic chicken never goes out of style.