Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); Special Equipment:; Large pot for boiling pasta; Oven-safe baking dish; Skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy pasta bake to bring the family together around the dinner table. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a household favorite in my kitchen—a dish that turns a restaurant-quality classic into a comforting, easy-to-make meal. I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something hearty but effortless, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit. My husband raved about the creamy, garlicky sauce, my kids devoured the shrimp (which almost never happens), and I was left with hardly any leftovers—a true sign of a successful meal!

What I love most about this dish is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels special. The combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, buttery sauce topped with bubbly, golden cheese creates a bite that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder—meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying dinner with my family.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your answer. It’s creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and just the right amount of fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen. I’ve perfected this recipe through trial and error, and I’m confident it will become a staple in your home too. Keep reading for all the details, tips, and tricks to make this dish absolutely foolproof!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they don’t release too much water into the dish.

What type of pasta works best?
I prefer rigatoni or penne because they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, but any short pasta will work.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best cheese for this bake?
A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan creates the perfect balance of gooey and flavorful. You can also add a bit of Gruyère for extra richness.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The shrimp is mild in flavor, and the cheesy pasta is always a hit. If your kids aren’t big on seafood, try chopping the shrimp into smaller pieces.

What You Need to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Special Equipment:

Large pot for boiling pasta

Oven-safe baking dish

Skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the shrimp by seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Make the sauce by adding the remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.

Combine the flavors by adding Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the sauce, stirring until smooth. Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp in the sauce until well coated.

Assemble the bake by transferring everything into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs on top.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish with parsley and serve warm!

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Use fresh shrimp if possible—it gives the best flavor and texture.

Toast the breadcrumbs before topping for extra crunch and golden color.

Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to help the sauce thicken.

Make it spicy by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Want a lighter version? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap out some of the cheese.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious! My family loved this, and it was so easy to make. Definitely adding it to our dinner rotation!” – Rachel M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Creamy, garlicky, and the perfect amount of cheese. The shrimp were perfectly cooked. Highly recommend!” – James T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the flavors, but next time I’ll add extra garlic for a stronger kick!” – Amanda L.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Such a great meal for busy nights. Prepped everything ahead and popped it in the oven when ready. So convenient!” – Sarah D.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great recipe, but I used fettuccine instead of rigatoni, and it was a little hard to mix. Will try penne next time!” – Lisa B.

Printable Recipe

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