Description

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines tender, succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and perfectly cooked al dente pasta. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it bakes to a bubbly, golden crust that is both comforting and indulgent. A quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a delicious blend of protein, garlic aroma, and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce and Flavorings

4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheeses

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking later in the bake.
Sauté Garlic and Spices: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, seasoning with salt and pepper while cooking for balanced flavor.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese into the skillet with shrimp and garlic. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens to coat the shrimp evenly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked pasta and the shrimp mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of sauce and seafood.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all the shredded mozzarella over the top evenly for a rich cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, garlicky comfort.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For gluten-free dietary needs, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles).
Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or dairy-free cream alternatives to reduce richness or accommodate lactose intolerance.
To add extra vegetables, mix in sautéed spinach or asparagus before baking for color and nutrients.
Spice lovers can add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
This dish is perfect for meal prep: assemble it ahead, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and add extra baking time if cooked directly from the fridge.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: shrimp pasta bake, shrimp scampi bake, cheesy pasta bake, garlic shrimp pasta, baked shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, easy dinner recipes, weeknight meals