Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a luxurious twist on the classic shrimp scampi. It combines succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and white wine with tender pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection. This dish is the perfect marriage of elegance and comfort—ideal for a cozy family dinner, a special occasion, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something indulgent. The garlicky, buttery shrimp infuses the pasta with rich flavor, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, irresistible topping. It’s everything you love about shrimp scampi, transformed into a bubbling, cheesy casserole.


Ingredients:

For the Shrimp Scampi:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 12 oz (340g) penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup additional mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan for topping

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
  • Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Shrimp Scampi

  • In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  • Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
  • Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside. Reserve the scampi sauce.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
  • Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  • Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, reserved scampi sauce, and cheese sauce. Mix until well coated.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake

  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

  • Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a balanced plate.

Tips & Variations:

  • Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Swap the Protein: Try using scallops or chunks of cooked chicken if shrimp isn’t available.

This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a celebration of bold flavors and creamy textures—perfect for when you want something that feels both comforting and gourmet. Want a lighter version or a gluten-free adaptation? I’d be happy to help you customize it!

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