March 28 2025

Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Casserole

Hey, friend!

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that’s full of flavor and easy to make, I’ve got a delicious recipe for you!

I know life can get busy, and sometimes we just need a dish that’s quick but also totally satisfying.

That’s exactly what this Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Casserole is all about—tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and that rich, buttery garlic sauce you can’t resist.

I’m going to walk you through the recipe step by step, and trust me, you’ll have it in the oven before you know it.

And, it makes enough to feed the whole family (or just you if you love leftovers!). You won’t believe how easy it is to throw together, and it’ll definitely become a go-to weeknight meal.

I get it, sometimes cooking feels like a chore, but I promise, this one’s simple, and you’ll end up feeling like a total chef.

The best of all? You don’t have to be an expert to get it right! So grab your apron, and let’s get started. You’re going to love this. REALLY!

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz pasta (any kind you prefer—linguine or penne works great)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Key Substitutions

Shrimp: You can use chicken or even a mix of veggies if you’re not a fan of shrimp.
Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a dairy-free version if preferred.
Pasta: Any pasta works, but long noodles like linguine give it that classic shrimp scampi feel.
Breadcrumbs: Swap with panko for extra crunch or skip them altogether for a softer top.

How to Cook the Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Casserole

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you get everything else ready.
Cook the pasta: Boil a big pot of salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package directions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Don’t forget to drain it once it’s done!
Cook the shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the shrimp, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir it up, and bring it to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. This is when you’ll start to really feel the garlic goodness!
Combine everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta, shrimp, and creamy sauce together. Make sure everything is coated nicely (no pasta left behind, please!).
Layer in a baking dish: Transfer everything into a baking dish (around 9×13 size). Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs over the top. This is where the magic happens—the cheesy, crispy topping!
Bake it: Put it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Garnish and serve: Take it out of the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Now, don’t just stand there—grab a plate and dig in!

That’s it! Easy, right? You’ve got yourself a delicious, mouthwatering casserole that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly—don’t walk away and get distracted by your phone! Overcooked shrimp turn tough and rubbery. Cook them for just 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque, then pull them out. Trust me, they’ll be perfect!

Not draining the pasta well

Don’t let any sneaky water hang around with your pasta! If there’s too much liquid, your casserole will be soggy. Make sure to drain it well and maybe give it a little shake to get rid of excess water. No soggy bottoms here!

Skipping the crispy breadcrumb topping

You need that golden, crunchy topping for texture. Don’t skip it! It’s what takes this dish from “yum” to “wow” in one bite. If you’re feeling extra, toss the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter to make them even crunchier!

Using cold pasta

If your pasta’s cold, it won’t mix well with the hot shrimp and creamy sauce. Make sure it’s nice and warm when you combine everything, so the sauce sticks to every little piece of pasta.

Not seasoning enough

Garlic is your friend in this recipe, but don’t be afraid to add a little extra salt and pepper to taste. Be bold with the seasoning! No bland casseroles here, please.

Forgetting the fresh parsley

That sprinkle of parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a pop of flavor that takes the whole dish up a notch. Don’t skip this step; your taste buds will thank you.

Variations & Customizations

Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Love a little heat? Amp up the spice by adding more red pepper flakes or even sriracha to the sauce. You could also throw in some diced jalapeños along with the shrimp for an extra kick. This spicy version will definitely wake up your taste buds!
Keto-Friendly: Trying to cut carbs? No problem! Swap the regular pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or a low-carb pasta alternative. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a lighter, keto-approved base. The creamy, garlicky sauce still shines through, so you won’t miss the carbs.
Veggie Lover’s Delight: For a vegetarian version, swap the shrimp for your favorite vegetables. Try adding mushrooms, broccoli, and spinach for a hearty and flavorful alternative. You could even throw in some roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Let it cool for a few minutes

Once you pull it out of the oven, resist the urge to dive right in! Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes so the sauce can set, and everything stays nice and neat when you serve it.

Garnish it up

Don’t skip the final touch! Grab some fresh parsley and sprinkle it generously over the top for a pop of color. You can also add a few thin slices of lemon on the side for a fresh, zesty flair. Trust me, it looks fancy and tastes even better.

Serve in individual portions

When you serve, use a large spoon to scoop out individual portions. The cheesy, creamy goodness should slide out in a nice, cohesive scoop—no messy plates here!

Pair it with a side salad

This casserole is rich and filling, so balance it out with a light, refreshing salad on the side. A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette will bring a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

Warm bread on the side

Serve the casserole with crusty bread for dipping in that extra sauce. Garlic bread or a simple baguette will do the trick—trust me, you’ll want to mop up every last drop of that creamy sauce!

Wine pairing (optional but fabulous)

If you’re feeling fancy, pair this dish with a nice white wine, like a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. It’s the perfect drink to complement the rich shrimp scampi flavor!

Best Tips for Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Casserole

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook super fast, and if you overdo it, they turn rubbery. Sauté them for just 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. They’ll finish cooking perfectly in the casserole without getting tough.

Use Fresh Garlic

For the best flavor, fresh garlic is a must. Skip the pre-minced stuff and go for real cloves. It makes a big difference in taste, and trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!

Cook the Pasta Al Dente

When cooking the pasta, go for al dente (firm to the bite). It will absorb the creamy sauce better without turning mushy during baking.

Don’t Skip the Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

For the perfect texture contrast, top your casserole with buttered breadcrumbs before baking. It adds a nice crunch that makes each bite even better!

Let the Casserole Rest

After baking, give your casserole a few minutes to rest before serving. This lets the sauce thicken and helps it hold together when you scoop it out.

Experiment with Cheese

While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Adding a little Mozzarella for extra gooeyness or a sprinkle of Asiago will elevate the dish with new flavors.

Add Extra Veggies

To make this casserole even more nutritious, toss in some spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. They’ll soak up all the flavors and add some extra color and texture to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, absolutely! While I recommend penne or rotini, you can swap for any pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that the sauce needs to coat the pasta well, so choose a shape with nooks and crannies!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This is a perfect make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. If it’s cold from the fridge, it may need an extra 10-15 minutes of baking.
Can I make this dish without shrimp?
Totally! If you’re not a fan of shrimp or want a vegetarian version, you can swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Get creative with what you like!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes are your best friend! Add a pinch to the sauce for a kick, or sprinkle some on top before baking for extra spice.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure the casserole is cooled completely before freezing. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you’re in a rush, place them in a bowl of cold water to speed up the process.
Can I use store-bought scampi sauce?
Sure! If you’re short on time, you can absolutely use store-bought scampi sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade sauce adds so much flavor and freshness—it’s totally worth the extra effort!

Conclusion

And there you have it—your Baked Shrimp Scampi Pasta Casserole is ready to wow your taste buds and impress everyone around the table!

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.

Trust me, once you’ve tasted this homemade version, you’ll never look at store-bought pasta casseroles the same way again. It’s that good!

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your version or any fun tweaks you made.

Who knows, you might just create your own family tradition with this dish!

You may want to try

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers