Go Back
+ servings
Creamy shrimp scampi pasta bake topped with parsley and cheese.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

A creamy, indulgent pasta bake with garlicky shrimp, rich cream sauce, and bubbly melted cheese, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (large or jumbo work best) Thaw fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid watery sauce.
  • 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne recommended) Use a shape that holds sauce well; penne catches sauce in the tubes.
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half plus a teaspoon of cornstarch.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Mix with Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Use low-moisture mozzarella to minimize excess liquid.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish and set it aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce and thicken slightly for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in half of the Parmesan and half of the mozzarella until the pasta is evenly coated.
  7. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours in an airtight container. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk. Can freeze for up to 3 months. Best reheated in the oven.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!