Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup dry white wine; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is the kind of comfort food that feels a little fancy but is incredibly easy to pull together. Picture juicy, golden-seared shrimp nestled into pasta that’s coated in a creamy garlic butter sauce, all baked until bubbly and lightly browned. It brings a touch of elegance to weeknight dinners or special gatherings, without the need for complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen.

The blend of garlic, lemon, white wine, and parmesan creates that classic scampi flavor we all know and love, but when you bake it with pasta and a cheesy topping, it transforms into something irresistibly cozy. It’s one of those dishes that make your kitchen smell incredible and your guests ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.
Quick prep and perfect for weeknights.
Elegant enough to serve for guests.
Bakes beautifully for melty, golden perfection.
Balanced with fresh lemon and herbs to keep it light.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Look for large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. You can use fresh or frozen (just thaw first). Tail-on shrimp look beautiful in the finished dish, especially when placed on top before baking, but tail-off is easier for eating. Make sure not to overcook them when searing—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Ingredients for the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Every ingredient in this recipe builds layers of flavor and creamy, baked goodness:

Pasta – Penne or rigatoni are great choices for holding onto the sauce. Cook until just al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
Shrimp – Adds the juicy, seafood richness and pairs perfectly with the scampi-style sauce.
Butter – Classic base for scampi; gives richness and depth.
Garlic – Essential for that bold scampi flavor.
White Wine – Brings brightness and slight acidity. Choose a dry white wine.
Lemon Juice + Zest – Lightens and enhances the garlic butter.
Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty layer that melts into the sauce.
Mozzarella – For that gooey, golden cheese topping.
Parsley – A fresh finishing touch.

How To Make the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry and sear in a hot skillet with butter until just pink on each side. Set aside—they’ll finish baking later.

Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic. Deglaze with white wine, then add lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Let it simmer and thicken slightly.

Step 3: Combine with Pasta

Add your cooked pasta into the sauce along with a handful of parmesan. Stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Assemble and Top

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Arrange the seared shrimp on top and sprinkle with mozzarella and more parmesan.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon before serving.

How to Serve and Store Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This dish feeds 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it piping hot right out of the oven for the best texture and flavor.

To store: Let leftovers cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. You can freeze it too, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly.

What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery—perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Caesar Salad

That crunchy romaine and creamy dressing are a match made in heaven with shrimp.

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Bright and tender, it complements the lemony sauce.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Keeps things light and adds a nice earthy contrast.

A Glass of White Wine

Pair with the same wine you used in the dish.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh and crisp for a balanced plate.

Roasted Broccolini

Adds color and a light bitterness that cuts through the richness.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake hit the spot, here are more baked pasta dishes to warm your soul:

Try the ultra-creamy Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving meat.
For another seafood twist, go for the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with layered goodness.
Enjoy the bold flavors in Cheesy Zucchini Casserole for a vegetarian side.
Cozy up with Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta that satisfies every bite.
Or go for one-pot ease with One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for hearty weeknight comfort.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it anytime!

And let me know in the comments if you added a spicy twist or kept it classic. Did you use rigatoni or penne? Or maybe extra cheese? I’d love to hear how you made this one your own.

Explore more cozy dinner ideas and crowd-pleasing pasta bakes on Nora Nosh’s Pinterest for your next favorite dish!