Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

If you love comforting pasta dishes with a bright and buttery lift, Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta is about to become your new weeknight go-to! Imagine plump, tender shrimp and al dente noodles smothered in a creamy, garlicky sauce, baked to golden, bubbly perfection with a crown of melty mozzarella—pure bliss in every forkful.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe keeps things simple, but every ingredient truly shines. Each one has an important role to play—think creamy cheese, snappy shrimp, and that signature buttery-garlic flavor that ties it all together.

• Butter: The base for our silky, rich sauce and essential for that classic scampi flavor.
• Jarred minced garlic: Adds bold, aromatic punch to the sauce with zero prep work.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly so it clings to every piece of pasta.
• Whole milk: Brings a gentle creaminess without making things too heavy.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory flavor for extra depth.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and highlighting the natural flavors.
• Egg (slightly beaten): Helps the sauce bake up silky and ensures it sets nicely.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Gives that unmistakable salty, nutty kick that makes scampi sing.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds a velvety texture and gentle, creamy flavor to the base.
• Uncooked pasta (any shape): The hearty backbone—choose your favorite variety for fun twists.
• Raw shrimp, thawed: They cook up sweet and juicy in the oven—already peeled and deveined for easy prep.
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts to form a bubbly, golden crust on top.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a bright, herby finish and pretty pop of color.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta is how delightfully adaptable it is! Whether you’re looking to adjust for allergies, taste preferences, or simply what’s in your fridge, these twists will help you make the dish your own.

• Go Gluten-Free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a completely wheat-free experience.
• Lighten It Up: For a fresher, lighter take, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella and add a handful of baby spinach to the pasta before baking.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and garlic.
• Lemon Zest Lovers: Stir in a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest just before baking for a bright, citrusy punch.

How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta of choice according to the package directions. Don’t skip the step of rinsing it in cold water before draining a second time—this cools it just enough so the eggs in your sauce don’t scramble when tossed together later.

Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce

While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and flour, and let them cook—while stirring constantly—until the mixture is bubbly and fragrant. Gradually whisk in the milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring as the mixture simmers gently, about 2–3 minutes, until the sauce is velvety and just thickened.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add shredded Parmesan and ricotta cheese, stirring to combine into a creamy, unified mixture. This cheesy blend is key for creating a luscious baked pasta that holds together perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Cheese

In a large bowl, gently combine your drained, cooled pasta with the scampi sauce and cheese mixture. Toss everything thoroughly so the pasta is coated in every delicious drop—mascara alert: the aroma is irresistible even before it goes in the oven!

Step 5: Assemble and Layer the Shrimp

Lightly coat two small baking dishes with non-stick spray. Divide the pasta mixture evenly between them. Arrange your raw, thawed shrimp in a single layer right over the top—don’t be shy; nestle them in so each bite is loaded with shrimp and flavor.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle a blanket of mozzarella all over the shrimp and pasta, then finish with a scattering of fresh parsley if you like. Slide the dishes into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for about 30 minutes. The cheese should be melted and a bit golden, and the shrimp cooked through and tender. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—it’ll be piping hot!

How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley not only adds color but brightens up the richness of the dish. If you’re a citrus fan, a little fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice over each serving brings a zippy freshness that absolutely sings with the creamy garlic sauce and shrimp.

Side Dishes

This Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Add a basket of garlic bread or warm baguette slices for sopping up every last drop of the creamy sauce, and maybe a side of roasted asparagus or broccolini for a little extra green on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to really wow your guests? Try baking the pasta in individual ramekins for a restaurant-style look, or serve it family-style in a large casserole dish piled high with extra shrimp on top. A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or a few halved cherry tomatoes before baking creates beautiful color contrast and a little extra pop with each bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days—just be aware the pasta will continue to soak up some of that lovely sauce as it sits.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if you want to prep ahead. Cool the baked pasta, wrap tightly, and freeze up to one month. For the best results (especially for the shrimp), reheat from frozen rather than thawing first to maintain the texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until hot throughout. You can microwave in a pinch—cover to retain moisture and heat gently so the shrimp don’t overcook. If the pasta seems dry, splash in a tablespoon of milk or broth before warming.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta—it’s the kind of meal that makes any occasion feel special (even if it’s just a quiet dinner at home). Gather your favorite people, scoop out a generous portion, and savor all the cozy, garlicky goodness. Enjoy every bite!

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