Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Rich and Flavorful Meal

January 13, 2026September 24, 2025 by Chef Jamie

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

For this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

– 8 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup chicken broth

– 1/4 cup lemon juice

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

To make this dish even better, consider these optional ingredients:

– A splash of white wine for depth

– Fresh basil or oregano for extra herbs

– A squeeze of lime juice for zest

– Sliced black olives for a salty bite

These options can enhance the flavor and make your meal unique. Feel free to mix and match!

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

If you don’t have some of these ingredients, here are some swaps you can use:

– Penne Pasta: Use any small pasta shape like rotini or fusilli.

– Shrimp: Substitute with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein.

– Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works well for a lighter flavor.

– Mozzarella Cheese: Try a different cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a new taste.

These substitutions keep the dish delicious while using what you have on hand. Adjust recipes to fit your pantry and taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps for the Dish

First, gather all your ingredients. You will need:

– 8 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup chicken broth

– 1/4 cup lemon juice

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step makes sure your dish bakes evenly later. Cook the penne pasta as the package says until it is al dente. Drain it and set it aside.

Cooking Instructions in a Skillet

Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. You want it to smell nice. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This means they are cooked.

After that, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes. Letting it cook lets the flavors mix well.

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Make sure you mix it well so every bite is tasty.

Baking Instructions and Recommended Oven Settings

Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This will melt and create a lovely cheesy layer.

Put the dish in the preheated oven. Bake it for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a lovely touch and a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Cook Shrimp

To cook shrimp just right, start with fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, let them thaw first. Heat olive oil in your skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. Then, add the shrimp. Cook them for three to four minutes until they turn pink. This shows they are done. Overcooking can make shrimp tough. Always keep an eye on them.

Best Practices for Pasta Cooking

When cooking pasta, follow package instructions for timing. For penne, aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite. This helps the pasta hold its shape in the bake. Use plenty of water and add salt. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake with a fresh salad. A simple green salad works well. You can also add crusty garlic bread for a delightful crunch. For drinks, try a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Both pair nicely with the dish’s rich flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This adds color and brightens the dish.

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Instead of shrimp, use mushrooms or eggplant. Both add great texture and soak up flavors well. For a vegan twist, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. Also, replace cheese with a plant-based version. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste without dairy.

Using Different Pasta Types

While penne works great, you can use any pasta you like. Shells, fusilli, or even spaghetti can fit well. Just make sure to adjust cooking time based on the pasta type. You want it to be al dente before baking. This helps keep it firm and tasty when mixed with the sauce.

Flavor Variations with Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can change the whole dish. Fresh basil or thyme adds lovely notes. If you want more heat, try adding cayenne pepper. For a zesty kick, mix in lemon zest or more lemon juice. You can also include capers for a salty burst. This dish is flexible. Feel free to experiment with flavors you love!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the shrimp scampi pasta bake fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions for Best Results

To reheat shrimp scampi pasta bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pasta bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until hot. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals. Stir in between to heat evenly.

Freezing Options for the Dish

If you want to freeze shrimp scampi pasta bake, do it before baking. Prepare the dish as directed but skip the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake as usual, and enjoy a delicious meal!

FAQs

Can I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp mixture, then combine them. Place everything in a baking dish. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it straight from the fridge. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

This pasta bake pairs well with simple sides. A fresh garden salad adds crunch and color. Garlic bread is a great option too. It soaks up the sauce and adds flavor. You might also enjoy some steamed broccoli or green beans. These veggies add a nice balance to the meal.

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

You can tell shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It should curl into a C shape. If it curls into an O shape, it might be overcooked. Cooking shrimp usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium heat. Always check for any gray areas; those mean it’s still raw.

This blog post covered all you need to know about Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake. We discussed the key ingredients, shared cooking steps, and provided tips for perfecting the dish. I also offered ideas for variations and how to store your leftovers.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this dish is great for any meal. Use the information here to create a delicious, satisfying meal. Enjoy making it your own, and happy cookin