Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

This Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is about to become your new weeknight hero. It blends juicy shrimp, garlicky scampi sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a bubbling trio of melted cheeses into one amazing casserole. Each bite hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, a little zesty from lemon, and utterly satisfying. If you love the flavors of shrimp scampi but crave the comfort of baked pasta, you’re going to adore how simple it is to bring restaurant-quality magic to your kitchen, even on the busiest evenings.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Great flavor doesn’t need to be complicated! Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, working together to create layers of taste and texture. These simple staples truly shine when combined into this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

• Shrimp: Choose large or extra-large peeled and deveined shrimp for a plump, juicy texture you’ll notice in every bite.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly and bakes up beautifully.
• Butter: Real butter is essential—its richness coats the shrimp and builds the base for classic scampi flavor.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle prevents sticking and elevates the sauce’s depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Garlic: Don’t be shy! Freshly minced garlic brings signature scampi zing.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: For that bright, fresh pop that cuts through the richness of the cheese and shrimp.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds just the right gentle warmth—adjust to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds color and lively herby aroma.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into those irresistible gooey cheese pulls.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parm adds nutty, salty depth throughout.
• Gruyère Cheese (or Swiss): Creamy and slightly sweet, it gives the bake a mellow richness.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings it all together.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp and Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook your pasta of choice in a large pot of salted water just until it’s al dente—remember, it’ll finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it! While the pasta cooks, give your shrimp a quick rinse, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of that sweet, snappy bite you want from shrimp in this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat butter and a splash of olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the garlic and stir until fragrant but not brown—just a minute or so. Next, add your shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and a hint of red pepper flakes, and let them turn just opaque (about 1–2 minutes per side). Squeeze in the lemon juice, stir in that vibrant zest, and scatter in chopped parsley for an herby lift. Remove shrimp from the pan and keep them handy—you want them plump, not overcooked.

Step 3: Build the Creamy, Cheesy Sauce

In the same skillet (hello, easy cleanup!), reduce the heat and add another dab of butter if needed. Pour in a splash of pasta cooking water to deglaze the pan and pick up all those golden garlic bits. Stir in half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheeses until melty and creamy. The sauce should be luscious, not too thick—add more pasta water if you need to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Drain your pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece with the cheesy scampi sauce. Fold in the sautéed shrimp, taking care to distribute them evenly so every forkful is shrimp-packed. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon as needed for balance. The result should be zesty, garlicky, and temptingly rich.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spoon everything into a lightly greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese—don’t be shy! That cheesy, bubbling topping is what gives this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake its irresistible comfort. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and beautifully bubbly. If you crave extra color, finish with a quick broil (just keep a close eye—it browns fast!). Let it rest for a few minutes before you dig in; it’ll set up and be easier to serve.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

For that restaurant-worthy touch, shower the bake with more chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or even an extra dusting of Parmesan right before serving. A quick twist of black pepper adds a final hit of aroma and a fancy finish that’s simple but impactful.

Side Dishes

This Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake begs for something light and crisp on the side. Think a zippy green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, perfectly roasted asparagus, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce. The goal is to keep the meal fresh and balanced while letting the bake be the star.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the bake into individual ramekins for impressive dinner-party presentation, or pile it high in a big skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe. For truly fun flair, tuck a lemon wedge onto each plate or finish with a dusting of smoked paprika for pop of color. However you serve Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, it’s sure to wow!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—this keeps the Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake moist and prevents it from picking up fridge odors. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The pasta soaks up the sauce as it sits, intensifying all those next-day flavors.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish! Assemble and bake as directed, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly with foil (or lid) and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—the cheese stays creamy and the shrimp won’t get rubbery.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven, covered loosely with foil. Add a splash of water or milk to keep things luscious if it’s looking a bit dry. Once bubbly and steamy, it’s ready to enjoy again!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them very dry before cooking for the best texture. Frozen shrimp are a convenient time-saver, and they still deliver that fresh, briny punch in the Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short shapes like penne, ziti, or rotini are ideal because they pick up all the sauce and cheese. If you prefer long pasta, like linguine, feel free to use it—just toss well before baking so the sauce spreads out evenly.

Can I make Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead?

You sure can! Simply assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake—a perfect way to stress less before a busy meal.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remember, they’ll finish cooking in the oven with the pasta, so if they look a little underdone in the pan, that’s exactly right!

Can I substitute the cheeses?

Yes! If Gruyère isn’t available, try Swiss or even Provolone. Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but feel free to use your favorites as part of the trio—this recipe is wonderfully flexible for cheese lovers.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to scoop into this Easy Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake and discover how effortless and satisfying homemade comfort food can be. With its bold flavors and ultra-creamy texture, this cozy casserole is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it soon—you’ll crave it again and again!

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