Dinner

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe November 30, 2025November 30, 2025

Introduction

Savor the irresistible combination of succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and melted cheese in this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

A white rectangular dish filled with two layers: the bottom layer is creamy yellow spaghetti pasta, and the top layer is grilled shrimp with golden-brown grill marks, arranged evenly over the pasta. The shrimp are plump and orange-pink, speckled with black seasonings, and sprinkled with small green parsley leaves for garnish. The edges of the dish show baked, slightly browned cheese or sauce, adding texture and color contrast. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with blurred background items creating a warm and inviting feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture, mixing thoroughly. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Top the dish with the remaining Parmesan and all of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky pasta bake!

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have heavy cream, substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter dish.
Pair this bake with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Use penne or fusilli pasta as they hold the sauce well and complement the shrimp perfectly.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta bake in the oven or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

A white deep rectangular dish filled with a layer of cooked spaghetti noodles at the bottom, creamy light yellow sauce coating the pasta evenly, and topped with a single layer of grilled shrimp that are pink with charred black pepper spots. The shrimp are arranged neatly on top, with bright green chopped herbs sprinkled over all, adding contrast. The surface around the dish is a white marbled texture, with soft light highlighting the creamy and grilled textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and shrimp mixture, assemble the bake, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.