Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

There's something undeniably comforting about a bubbling pasta bake fresh from the oven, especially when it's loaded with succulent shrimp and garlic-butter goodness. This Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake transforms the classic Italian-American dish into a family-friendly casserole that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce comes together under a blanket of melted cheese for a meal that's both impressive and incredibly simple to prepare.

As a professional chef, I've refined this recipe to capture all the traditional flavors of shrimp scampi while making it accessible for home cooks. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and how it elevates everyday ingredients into something special without requiring advanced culinary skills.

Gather Your Ingredients

The magic of this Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake starts with quality ingredients. Each component plays an important role in creating that signature scampi flavor profile while ensuring the pasta bake remains moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)


• 12 ounces penne pasta (about 3/4 of a standard box)


• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)


• 4 tablespoons butter, divided


• 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)


• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)


• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning


• Salt and pepper to taste


• 1/4 cup chicken broth


• Juice of half a lemon (about 1 tablespoon)


• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese


• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided


• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Prepare Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the penne pasta until it's just al dente, about 9-10 minutes or 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so you want it slightly firm. Drain well but don't rinse – that starchy coating will help the sauce cling to the pasta.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter melts and begins to foam slightly. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them as they'll continue cooking in the oven. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Create the Scampi Sauce

Using the same skillet with all those wonderful shrimp flavors, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, then stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with half of the mozzarella cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, being careful not to break them. Transfer this entire mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Add the Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese. This dual-cheese approach creates a perfect balance of sharp flavor and stretchy, melty texture that forms a beautiful golden crust during baking.

Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown on top. If you want a more golden finish, you can switch to the broiler for the final 1-2 minutes, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Finish and Serve

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the sauce to settle and thicken slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with additional grated Parmesan on the side if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake represents the perfect marriage of convenience and gourmet flavor. It takes the beloved classic shrimp scampi and transforms it into a comforting, family-friendly dish that's perfect for any occasion. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – straightforward ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family dinner, meal prepping for busy days ahead, or entertaining friends, this pasta bake delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The combination of succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and that signature garlic-butter sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.

I'd love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Did you try any of the variations? Share your experience in the comments below, and don't forget to save this recipe for your next seafood craving. Happy cooking!