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!