Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

 Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake: A Creamy, Zesty Twist on a Classic Favorite

Looking for the perfect comfort food with a gourmet twist? This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake combines the garlicky, buttery elegance of classic shrimp scampi with the hearty satisfaction of a baked pasta dish. It's rich, zesty, and cheesy, with a golden breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you're cooking for a dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal, this baked pasta will have everyone going back for seconds — and asking for the recipe.

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  Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Full of Flavor: Fresh garlic, citrus juices, and red pepper flakes deliver a vibrant, bold punch in every bite.

Comforting & Creamy: Butter, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese create a luscious, savory sauce.

Easy Yet Impressive: It looks fancy, but it’s actually quick to make — under 45 minutes from start to finish.

Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids, yet elevated enough for adults to appreciate.

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  Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in building layers of flavor and texture:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

The star protein! Shrimp brings a juicy, briny bite that pairs beautifully with garlic and citrus.

16 oz linguine pasta

A long, flat noodle that soaks up all the sauce — ideal for baked pasta dishes.

1/2 cup butter

Adds richness and depth to the sauce, forming the base of the scampi flavor.

1/4 cup olive oil

Balances the butter and helps sauté the garlic without burning it.

6 cloves garlic, minced

The cornerstone of scampi! Adds a bold, aromatic flavor that permeates the whole dish.

1/4 cup lime juice

Brings tang and brightness, enhancing the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

1/4 cup lemon juice

Adds classic scampi zing, giving the sauce its signature citrusy edge.

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

A fresh herbal element that lightens the dish and adds color.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Provides a gentle heat that lifts the richness of the sauce.

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Essential for seasoning — enhances and balances all other flavors.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Adds umami and creaminess, helping bind the pasta and sauce.

1/4 cup bread crumbs

Toasted on top for a golden, crispy finish that contrasts the creamy interior.

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  Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked shrimp scampi pasta every time:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even baking and a bubbly finish.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.

Drain and set aside — don’t overcook; the pasta will continue baking in the oven.

3. Sauté the Shrimp

In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Toss in the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pan

Pour in lime juice and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom — these are flavor gold!

Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

5. Mix in Pasta and Cheese

Turn off the heat. Add the cooked pasta, chopped parsley, and half the Parmesan cheese to the skillet.

Gently toss to coat everything evenly in the luscious citrus-garlic sauce.

6. Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the pasta is hot and the sauce is bubbling.

7. Broil for a Crispy Top

Remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.

Place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until golden brown and crispy.

8. Serve Immediately

Garnish with extra parsley or a wedge of lemon if desired. Serve piping hot!

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  Pro Tips for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Success

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor — frozen works too, just thaw thoroughly and pat dry.

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.

Don’t overcook shrimp — they should be just pink and opaque; otherwise, they become rubbery.

Broil briefly to avoid burning the topping. Stay near the oven!

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  Serving Suggestions

This dish is satisfying on its own, but for a full restaurant-quality meal, try pairing it with:

A crisp Caesar salad or arugula and lemon vinaigrette for freshness.

Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up every drop of sauce.

A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the perfect flavor complement.

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  Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake hits every note — rich, zesty, creamy, crispy, and comforting. It's the kind of recipe you keep in your back pocket for date night, dinner parties, or weeknight indulgence. It’s simple to make, yet feels indulgent and special.

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  Final Thoughts: Make This Tonight!

If you're looking for a way to elevate your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen, this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your answer. With bold flavors, easy steps, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a guaranteed hit. Bookmark this recipe, pin it, or print it out —

 you'll be coming back to it again and again.

Ready to impress? Make this shrimp scampi bake tonight — and taste why it's everyone's new favorite!