Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

If there ever was a dish that made you feel like you’re pulling off a weeknight miracle, it’s my Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe. Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with plump shrimp nestled in cheesy pasta, this comforting casserole takes all the flavors of classic scampi and wraps them up in a bubbly, golden bake you’ll crave again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe is how a handful of humble ingredients come together to taste like a special occasion. Each component adds something essential—creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, or a pop of color—that builds incredible layers of flavor and texture.

• Butter (2 Tbsp): The cornerstone of rich flavor, it gives the sauce its classic scampi silkiness.
• Minced Garlic (1 tsp): Use jarred or fresh, but don’t skip—this is what brings real scampi character!
• All-Purpose Flour (1 Tbsp): Just enough to lightly thicken the sauce without making it heavy.
• Whole Milk (⅓ cup): Adds creamy body to the sauce—you could swap in 2% if you must.
• Chicken Broth (¼ cup): A little broth boosts flavor and keeps things from feeling too rich or dense.
• Salt & Pepper (⅛ tsp each): Enhances every ingredient and brings balance to the dish.
• Egg (1, slightly beaten): Works with the cheese to help set the pasta when baked—trust me, it’s magic.
• Parmesan Cheese (⅛ cup, shredded): Nutty, salty depth—use freshly shredded for best melting and flavor.
• Ricotta Cheese (¼ cup): Creamy, mild, and helps bind everything together while keeping it luscious.
• Uncooked Pasta (4 oz, any shape): Short shapes like ziti, penne, or fusilli all work beautifully—use your favorite.
• Raw Shrimp (½ lb, peeled & deveined): I buy frozen and thaw to save time; make sure tails are off for easy eating!
• Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup, shredded): The finishing touch for that irresistible gooey, browned top.
• Fresh Parsley (1 tsp, chopped, optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and a pop of herby brightness.

Variations

If you love to put your own twist on classics, this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe is a dream. It’s easy to swap out ingredients, adjust for dietary needs, or simply work with what you have stocked in the kitchen.

• Lemon Zest Kick: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the sauce or over the finished bake for a tangy, fresh pop.
• Veggie Power: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or sautéed zucchini to slip in extra greens and make it a one-pan meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—no one will know the difference!
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Swap or add a bit of fontina, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a twist on the cheese topping.

How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your favorite pasta shape according to package directions. Don’t forget: rinse under cold water once drained! This keeps the pasta cool so your egg and cheeses don’t scramble when everything’s mixed later. Set aside and let’s get saucy.

Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce

While the pasta’s going, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and flour, stirring constantly until the mixture is bubbly and fragrant (about a minute). Slowly whisk in the milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens—2 to 3 minutes should do it. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, lightly beat your egg. Add the shredded Parmesan and creamy ricotta. Mix until combined—you’ll see this come together into a dreamy, cheesy binder that gives your bake irresistible richness.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Grab two small baking dishes (about 18.6 ounces each) and give them a good spray with non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooled pasta, scampi sauce, and cheese mixture until happily coated and united. Divide this decadent pasta base between the two prepared dishes.

Step 5: Top with Shrimp and Cheese

Evenly arrange your thawed, peeled shrimp over the pasta, nestling them in so each bite gets plenty of seafood goodness. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top (go all the way to the edges), and scatter with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Slide your dishes into a 350°F oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving—this helps everything set and ensures no one burns their tongue. Serve straight from the baking dish, ideally on a cork trivet to protect your table. Dig in while it’s piping hot!

How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh parsley does wonders for color and flavor, adding a brightness that wakes up the lush creaminess. A little extra grated Parmesan or a light drizzle of good olive oil over each serving adds an elegant touch that will have everyone reaching for their forks!

Side Dishes

This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad (think arugula, lemon vinaigrette, or classic Caesar) and some crusty bread to mop up all that incredible sauce. If you want to keep it Italian, roasted asparagus or garlicky broccolini makes a fabulous side as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the pasta in individual ovenproof ramekins for dinner party flair, or serve right in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal. For a restaurant-worthy presentation, pile the golden baked pasta into shallow bowls and arrange a few shrimp artfully on top with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and microgreens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before covering them tightly and stashing in the fridge. The Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe will keep for up to 2 days—just remember shrimp is best when enjoyed sooner rather than later for peak freshness.

Freezing

While dairy-heavy pasta bakes aren’t always freezer stars, this recipe does pretty well! Assemble everything (except the shrimp—add those fresh before baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the shrimp, and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth, or cover and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. Keep in mind the shrimp can toughen if overcooked, so heat gently until just hot.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many cozy evenings the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe has saved—and delighted—my family and friends! If you’re craving something creamy, garlicky, and packed with love, give this recipe a try. I just know you’ll fall head over heels for its easy elegance and irresistible flavor. Let me know how you serve it up and enjoy every bite!

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