There's nothing quite like the combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake takes all the best elements of the classic dish and transforms it into a hearty, cheesy casserole that's perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

I first made this dish when I was craving shrimp scampi but wanted something more substantial. By adding pasta and a layer of gooey cheese, I turned it into a satisfying bake that's now a go-to recipe in my home. It's quick, simple, and bursting with garlicky, lemony goodness.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you're a fan of classic shrimp scampi, you're going to love this baked version. It has all the flavor you adore but with a heartier, more comforting twist.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready to pop in the oven.

The flavors are absolutely irresistible. The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and shrimp creates a bright yet savory taste that pairs beautifully with the cheesy baked pasta.

It's also a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish in advance and bake it when you're ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Lastly, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can use your favorite pasta shape, add extra veggies, or switch up the cheeses to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The key to an amazing Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is using high-quality ingredients that enhance its rich and zesty flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the dish. Opt for large, deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Pasta serves as the foundation. I recommend penne, rigatoni, or ziti, as their sturdy shape holds up well in a baked dish and traps all the delicious sauce.

Butter and garlic create the signature scampi flavor. Fresh garlic is best for maximum aroma and taste, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish and cut through the richness. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.

You'll also need parmesan and mozzarella cheese to create a gooey, melty topping that ties everything together beautifully.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Bringing this dish together is a breeze. Let’s walk through the steps.

Start by cooking the pasta until it's al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the shrimp.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink, then remove from heat.

Next, toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp, along with a generous squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Stir in a bit of grated parmesan to enhance the flavor.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, then top with shredded mozzarella and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storage Options

Proper storage ensures that your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake stays fresh and delicious for days.

If refrigerating, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for plenty of customization.

If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

For a lower-carb version, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Want an extra cheesy twist? Try adding ricotta or cream cheese to the mix for a creamier texture.

If you’re out of shrimp, you can substitute cooked chicken or even scallops for a different take on the dish.

No matter how you customize it, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!