Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

It was one of those long weekdays when dinner felt like a chore. The kind of evening where takeout seemed easier than facing the stove. But I had a handful of shrimp in the freezer, some leftover pasta, and a small block of mozzarella waiting in the fridge enough to turn the night around.

With a little olive oil and butter sizzling on the pan, garlic hit the heat and filled the kitchen with its sharp, cozy aroma. I tossed in the shrimp, a splash of white wine, and a squeeze of lemon. It felt simple and effortless,and before I knew it, the idea of a baked version came to life.

Fifteen minutes later, the oven filled the room with that unmistakable smell of bubbling cheese and buttery scampi sauce. What started as a tired evening turned into a small victory: a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that tasted like comfort and celebration all at once.

This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake became my go-to for busy nights when I want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

Short Description

A comforting twist on the classic shrimp scampi. This creamy pasta bake combines juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and melted cheese for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Key Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine)
• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup (125 ml) dry white wine or chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Bake:

• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (125 ml) chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Tools Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet
• Whisk and spatula
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Oven

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish baking in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 40 minutes

Creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pure comfort food

Feels gourmet but uses pantry ingredients

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining

Family-friendly and easy to customize

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Overcooked shrimp: Cook only until pink and firm; overdone shrimp becomes rubbery.

Sauce too thick: Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it before baking.

Pasta too soft: Undercook pasta slightly before baking to keep texture perfect.

Cheese burning on top: Cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes if it browns too quickly.

Sauce separating: Avoid high heat once cream is added; gentle simmer only.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

Pair with a glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

For a cozy dinner, serve straight from the baking dish, family-style.

Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Cool the pasta bake completely before storing.

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months if desired.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until hot and creamy.

Avoid microwaving to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

1. Can I use precooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them after making the sauce to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make it without wine?
Absolutely, just use chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

3. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

5. What pasta works best?
Short shapes like penne, ziti, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting.

Add a pinch of lemon zest for extra brightness.

Toss pasta in the sauce while it’s warm for better absorption.

Let the baked dish rest 5 minutes before serving for neater slices.

Double the recipe for meal prep or parties; it reheats beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Shrimp Bake: Add 1 teaspoon chili flakes or diced jalapeños.

Veggie Scampi Bake: Mix in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.

Cajun Twist: Replace Italian seasoning with Cajun spice for smoky flavor.

Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or chunks of white fish.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and thicken the sauce with cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

The golden cheese, creamy sauce, and tender shrimp come together in perfect harmony, creating both comfort and energy after a long day. It’s quick to prepare, yet full of depth and flavor that feels special every time.

This recipe celebrates balance rich but fresh, simple yet satisfying. The buttery aroma of garlic, the hint of lemon, and the creamy texture make it a meal worth savoring slowly. Each bite carries warmth and brightness that uplifts even the busiest weekday.

Good food doesn’t need to be complex; it just needs care, patience, and a touch of creativity. When this pasta bake comes out of the oven bubbling and golden, it reminds you that a calm evening and a delicious meal are sometimes all it takes to feel at peace again.