Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich, garlicky brightness of shrimp scampi with the comforting satisfaction of pasta, the One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is your new kitchen hero. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, flavorful herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta all baked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a meal packed with luscious taste and irresistible aroma. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks in a single dish, cutting down significantly on kitchen cleanup.
• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for night when time is tight.
• Rich, vibrant flavors: Garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs create a bright and savory taste explosion.
• Protein-packed seafood: Shrimp adds a lean, juicy source of protein that cooks quickly and complements pasta beautifully.
• Customizable for all diets: Easily tweak ingredients to suit gluten-free or low-carb needs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: straightforward ingredients that each bring their own texture, flavor, and color to the dish. This blend guarantees a well-balanced and mouthwatering One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake every time you make it.

• Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quick cooking and an even cook time.
• Spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite pasta that holds sauce well but cooks evenly in the bake.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must to infuse the entire dish with that signature scampi aroma.
• Lemon juice and zest: Adds brightness and a fresh tang to balance the rich garlic butter.
• Olive oil and butter: A combination that gives a silky mouthfeel and deep flavor foundation.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated for topping and melting into the pasta bake for a creamy finish.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, to bring just a gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped and added at the end for color and a herbaceous touch.
• Chicken broth or white wine: Provides moisture and depth during baking without overpowering the shrimp.

Variations for One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

This One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to swap ingredients or adjust flavors depending on what you have on hand or your specific taste and dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative!

• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and nutrients.
• Different proteins: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even a plant-based seafood alternative.
• Spice it up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Cheese variations: Try mozzarella or fontina for a gooey, melty texture instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this perfect for gluten-sensitive diets without losing any flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep your ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if necessary, mincing the garlic, and zesting and juicing the lemon. Having everything prepped ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe pan over medium heat, then sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. This gentle cooking releases the essential oils, building flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Add the shrimp

Place the shrimp in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they just start to turn pink. Shrimp cooks fast, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Combine pasta and liquids

Add the dry pasta, chicken broth (or white wine if preferred), lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir everything to evenly distribute the flavors and liquids.

Step 5: Bake until tender

Transfer the pan to a preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. This allows the shrimp to finish cooking gently while the pasta bakes to perfection.

Step 6: Add cheese and herbs

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and bake an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. Finish with fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

• Use an oven-safe skillet: Opt for a cast iron or stainless steel pan that can go directly from stove to oven for best results and less mess.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give shrimp enough room to sear properly to keep them tender and juicy.
• Check pasta doneness: Oven times may vary, so test the pasta for your preferred texture before removing it.
• Reserve extra cheese: Keep some Parmesan aside for serving to add an extra hit of flavor when plated.
• Control moisture: If the mixture looks too dry before baking, add a splash more broth or wine to ensure creamy pasta.

How to Serve One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of lemon zest or an extra squeeze of lemon juice brightens the rich flavors just before serving.

Side Dishes

The pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a crunchy baguette is perfect for soaking up any remaining flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve portions in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, charming presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the shrimp’s tenderness and prevent the pasta from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake?

Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess water making the dish soggy.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using gluten-free pasta lets you enjoy the same great flavors without gluten concerns.

Can I prepare this meal without an oven?

While baking gives a perfect finish, you can cook the pasta on the stovetop and toss everything together; just keep the heat low to meld flavors.

What type of wine works best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements shrimp scampi beautifully by adding subtle acidity and depth.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp briefly until just pink, then finish in the oven to avoid a rubbery texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor while keeping dinner simple and cleanup minimal, this One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a fast favorite—comforting, quick, and downright delicious. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and make a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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