Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Shrimp Scampi is a beloved seafood dish, known for its simplicity and delectable combination of shrimp, garlic, butter, and lemon. But what happens when you take this classic and give it a twist? Enter the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake—a comforting, cheesy, baked version of the traditional shrimp scampi, perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal. This recipe blends the rich flavors of shrimp scampi with creamy cheese and tender pasta, resulting in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

In this article, we will explore the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake recipe in depth, offering helpful tips and insights to make this dish a staple in your kitchen. Along the way, we’ll fill in gaps that many recipes often overlook and ensure that you get a comprehensive guide to making the most delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

What Makes Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Special?

The beauty of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simplicity and versatility. Traditional shrimp scampi is served over pasta, but this baked version adds extra richness and texture by combining all the ingredients in one dish and baking them together. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The addition of cream cheese and mozzarella gives the dish a luscious, creamy texture that complements the savory shrimp perfectly.

• Baked to Perfection: Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld together, and the top layer of cheese becomes golden and slightly crispy, adding a delightful contrast to the soft pasta and shrimp.

• Easy to Prepare: Unlike many baked pasta dishes, this recipe requires minimal prep time. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss dinner that still feels indulgent.

Before diving into the step-by-step guide, let’s look at the key ingredients and some important tips to ensure you get the best results.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

The ingredient list for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is simple, but each component plays an important role in delivering a balanced, flavorful dish. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined) are the stars of the dish. Medium to large shrimp work best, providing a good balance between flavor and texture.

• Pasta: Traditional spaghetti works well, but you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or penne. The choice of pasta can slightly alter the dish’s texture but won’t compromise the flavor.

• Butter and Garlic: The heart of shrimp scampi lies in the buttery, garlicky sauce. This combination adds a rich depth to the dish and enhances the flavor of the shrimp.

• Cream Cheese and Mozzarella: These creamy cheeses create a velvety base for the bake, adding a comforting texture that contrasts the tenderness of the shrimp and pasta.

• Fresh Parsley and Lemon Zest: These ingredients provide freshness and a bright, zesty note to balance the richness of the other components. A touch of lemon juice at the end can also elevate the flavor.

• Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some of the pasta cooking water. This starchy liquid is an excellent way to loosen the sauce and make it smoother without losing flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• White Wine: A splash of dry white wine can be added to the butter and garlic mixture for extra depth of flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can be added for additional cheesy goodness.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This recipe comes together in no time and is perfect for a family dinner or a dinner party. Below, we’ll break down the steps to help you achieve the perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

Ingredients List

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients for this simple, yet delicious dish:

• 12 oz uncooked spaghetti (or preferred pasta)

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)

• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/8 tsp black pepper

• 1.5 lb raw, peeled, tail-off medium-sized shrimp

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dish is at the right temperature for baking when you’re ready.

2. Cook the Pasta:
   Cook the pasta according to the package directions, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles. This starchy water will help make your sauce smoother and more cohesive.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, place the cream cheese and butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the butter and cream cheese are completely melted and combined. Use a whisk to mix everything together until smooth.

4. Add Flavor:
   To the melted mixture, stir in the reserved pasta water, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the garlic and lemon zest are evenly distributed in the sauce.

5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
   Add the drained pasta to a large baking dish (9×13 inches is ideal). Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pasta and toss to combine, ensuring the noodles are well-coated. Add the raw shrimp and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine everything evenly.

6. Bake:
   Top the pasta mixture with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked (they should be pink and opaque) and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for the perfect meal.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Since the shrimp are added raw to the bake, be sure not to overcook them during baking. Shrimp cook quickly, and they should turn pink and curl up when done. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.

• Use Fresh Pasta: If you’re able to find fresh pasta, it will absorb the sauce better and add an extra level of flavor and texture to your dish.

• Add Spice: For a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture. This adds a nice layer of heat that balances the richness of the cream and butter.

• Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble everything, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake as instructed.

Variations and Customizations for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

While the traditional Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is undeniably delicious, there’s plenty of room for personalization. Whether you want to introduce new flavors, make the dish lighter, or cater to dietary preferences, there are several ways to make this recipe your own.

1. Add Vegetables

For a more well-rounded meal, consider adding vegetables to the bake. Vegetables bring extra nutrients, color, and flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.

• Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce. You can add a couple of handfuls of spinach to the pasta and sauce mixture before baking. The spinach will cook down and incorporate into the creamy sauce.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the rich shrimp and pasta.

• Broccoli: Lightly steamed or roasted broccoli is a great addition to this bake, offering a nice crunch and a vibrant green element.

• Zucchini: Thinly sliced zucchini adds a subtle texture and can absorb the flavor of the sauce, blending seamlessly into the dish.

2. Lighten Up the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, there are a few substitutions you can make without sacrificing too much flavor:

• Swap Cream Cheese for Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture similar to cream cheese but with fewer calories and more protein. Use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best result.

• Use Lighter Cheese: You can opt for a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese to lower the overall calorie count. While it won’t be quite as creamy, it will still melt nicely.

• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: For a healthier or gluten-free option, swap traditional spaghetti for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. Both alternatives will still work well in this recipe and provide a hearty base for the bake.

3. Spice Things Up

If you’re someone who loves a bit of heat, consider spicing up your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with the following additions:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce is a simple way to introduce some spice. A pinch or two will do the trick, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.

• Cajun Seasoning: For a more bold and smoky flavor, toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning before adding them to the pasta. This will give the dish a southern twist and make it even more vibrant.

• Fresh Chili Peppers: Thinly sliced fresh chili peppers can be incorporated into the bake for a stronger, more direct heat. Choose from jalapeños, serranos, or even a hotter variety like habanero if you’re up for the challenge.

4. Make It Vegetarian

If you’re catering to vegetarian guests or just want to try a vegetarian version of the dish, it’s easy to leave out the shrimp and substitute with other ingredients:

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled portobello mushrooms, eggplant, or bell peppers can replace the shrimp and add a satisfying umami flavor to the dish.

• Tofu: Firm tofu can be marinated and baked alongside the pasta. It will absorb the creamy sauce and provide a hearty, protein-rich alternative.

• Chickpeas: For a more Mediterranean-inspired take, add chickpeas to the bake. They’ll provide a nice texture and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

5. Upgrade the Cheese

Cheese is one of the highlights of any baked pasta dish, and Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is no exception. While mozzarella is the go-to option, don’t hesitate to get creative with your cheese choices:

• Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top of the mozzarella will add a rich, nutty flavor. Mix some into the sauce for extra cheesiness.

• Fontina: Known for its melting qualities, Fontina cheese will add a creamy, savory flavor. It can be mixed with mozzarella for a more complex cheese base.

• Cheddar: For a sharp contrast to the creamy mozzarella, add a bit of sharp cheddar cheese to the bake. Its distinct flavor will stand out in the mix.

6. Make It a One-Pan Dish

If you want to simplify the cleanup, consider making your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake in one pan from start to finish. Here’s how:

• Cook the Shrimp in the Same Pan: Start by sautéing the shrimp in the same pan you’ll use for the bake. Once they’re cooked, remove them and set them aside. Use the same pan to make the sauce by melting the butter and cream cheese before adding the pasta and shrimp back in.

• Bake in a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect for both stovetop cooking and baking. You can prepare everything in the skillet, from cooking the shrimp to mixing in the pasta and sauce. Once everything is combined, transfer the skillet to the oven for baking.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Serving Ideas

A hearty dish like Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake can be paired with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Here are some ideas to serve alongside your pasta bake:

1. Garlic Bread

What’s a pasta dish without garlic bread? This crispy, buttery bread complements the rich flavors of the pasta bake perfectly. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on the bread before toasting it, or use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.

2. Green Salad

A fresh salad can balance the richness of the pasta bake. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette works wonders. You could also add sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or red onions for extra flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make for an excellent side dish. The caramelized edges of roasted vegetables add depth of flavor, which pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp pasta bake.

4. Lemon-Infused Rice

Lemon-infused rice adds a subtle, citrusy note that complements the shrimp scampi flavors. To prepare, cook your rice as usual and then toss it with some lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

5. Grilled Veggie Skewers

For a more summery touch, serve your shrimp scampi pasta bake with grilled vegetable skewers. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are excellent choices. The smoky flavor from grilling will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Nutritional Information for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

While delicious, it’s important to be mindful of the nutritional content of your meals. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per serving of Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. Keep in mind that the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Key Nutritional Insights:

• Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish a great option for those looking to build muscle or maintain a balanced diet.

• Carbohydrates: The pasta adds carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy. Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to increase the fiber content.

• Fat: While this recipe includes a fair amount of butter and cream cheese, most of the fats come from healthy sources like shrimp. If you’re looking to reduce saturated fats, consider using lower-fat cheese options or reducing the butter slightly.

• Sodium: Depending on how much salt is added and the type of cheese used, the sodium content may be a bit high. Be mindful of this if you’re on a low-sodium diet.

Storing and Reheating Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

If you happen to have leftovers, storing and reheating them is simple, and the dish will taste just as delicious the next day.

Storing Leftovers:

Allow the Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. However, note that the texture of the pasta and shrimp may change slightly after freezing.

Reheating:

To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the pasta bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time (about 30-40 minutes) for it to warm up properly. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe Card

Ingredients

• 12 oz uncooked spaghetti (or preferred pasta)

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)

• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/8 tsp black pepper

• 1.5 lb raw, peeled, tail-off medium-sized shrimp

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the pasta according to package directions, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

3. Prepare the sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cream cheese and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat until melted. Whisk until smooth, then add reserved pasta water, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

4. Combine pasta and shrimp: Add the drained pasta to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cream cheese sauce over the pasta and toss to combine. Add the raw shrimp and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir again to combine.

5. Top with remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

• You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the cream cheese, or use reduced-fat cheese.

• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture. The shrimp should be pink and curled when done.

• If you want a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Method: Baked

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 450-500 kcal per serving

Yield: 6 servings