Get ready to transform a classic Italian-American favorite into a comforting casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds. This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake features tender shrimp and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy panko crust. It’s an elegant yet easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner but special enough for company. If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food mashup, this baked shrimp scampi is your answer.
Unlike traditional scampi that’s served immediately, this dish bakes everything together in a casserole, allowing the flavors to meld into a truly unforgettable experience. The sauce soaks into the pasta, and the cheesy, crunchy topping adds a delightful texture that takes it over the top.
Why This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a Must-Try
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Incredibly Flavorful: A luscious sauce made with garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese creates a perfect harmony of savory, bright, and rich flavors.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s simple enough for a family dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy days or meal planning.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combining creamy pasta, succulent shrimp, and a cheesy, crunchy topping, this dish is the definition of comfort in a baking dish.
The Key Ingredients for a Perfect Bake
The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this incredible dish to life.
For the Creamy Scampi Sauce
- Butter: The foundation of any great scampi sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is a must for that signature aromatic flavor.
- Dry White Wine: Use a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to deglaze the pan and add depth.
- Heavy Cream & Cream Cheese: These are the secrets to an ultra-creamy, luxurious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the rich sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the seafood perfectly.
For the Pasta and Shrimp
- Pasta: Linguine, fettuccine, or a sturdy short pasta like penne or rigatoni works beautifully.
- Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, are ideal for a juicy, succulent bite.
For the Crispy Panko Topping
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For a light, airy, and super crispy topping.
- Melted Butter: Helps the breadcrumbs turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Guide to Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping casserole. This process is straightforward and guarantees a perfect result every time.
- Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions until it’s just shy of al dente. Mince your garlic, chop your parsley, and ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined.
- Create the Scampi Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the white wine to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until you have a smooth, luscious sauce.
- Combine and Season: Off the heat, stir in the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp, tossing everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and fresh parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tips for an Unforgettable Shrimp Scampi Casserole
To ensure your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is absolutely perfect, keep these expert tips in mind.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue to cook in the oven, pull it from the boiling water when it’s still slightly firm.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley make a world of difference in the final flavor.
- Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before adding the shrimp to the sauce, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook properly without watering down the sauce. For another amazing seafood dish, try this Cajun Seafood Alfredo.
Delicious Variations to Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to customize it! For a different take on baked pasta, this Chicken Tortellini Bake is always a winner.
- Add Some Veggies: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach, steamed asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheese Lovers’ Edition: Mix in some mozzarella or provolone cheese with the pasta for an even gooier, cheesier result.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake makes for fantastic leftovers. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Looking for another great bake? Our Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Bake is a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole without the panko topping up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, add the topping and bake, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
The shrimp go into the casserole raw. They will cook perfectly in the 15-20 minutes it takes for the casserole to bake and the topping to become golden brown. This method ensures they are tender and juicy, not rubbery.
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. Add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice to mimic the acidity of the wine.
Traditionally, shrimp scampi sauce is made from butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. Our baked version adds heavy cream and cream cheese for an extra rich and creamy texture that’s perfect for a casserole.
Long pasta like linguine or fettuccine is traditional, but sturdy short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells work wonderfully too. They do a great job of capturing the creamy sauce.
The Ultimate Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Creamy, Garlicky Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cooked pasta and the raw shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to combine everything in the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pasta.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use quality ingredients: Fresh garlic, real butter, and fresh lemon juice will provide the best flavor.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking and add 10 minutes to the bake time.
Share This Delicious Recipe!
We hope you love this creamy and delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress. If you make it, please leave a comment below and share your creation on Pinterest. We can’t wait to see it!
