Introduction

Some dishes instantly make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy Italian trattoria, candlelight flickering, and a glass of chilled white wine in hand. For me, that dish has always been Shrimp Scampi Bake.

The first time I made this recipe was on a rainy Tuesday evening when I wanted something comforting yet elegant—something that felt like dining out without leaving home. The result? Juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky butter sauce, kissed with lemon, layered with cream, and finished under a blanket of bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan. The aroma alone filled the house with joy, but the first bite sealed the deal.

Unlike traditional shrimp scampi, which is often tossed quickly in a skillet, this baked version is creamy, cheesy, and hearty, making it perfect for family dinners, small gatherings, or even a romantic date night at home. It’s indulgent without being overly fussy, and it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even just a loaf of warm crusty bread.

If you’re already drooling, trust me—you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into this irresistible Shrimp Scampi Bake recipe.

Shrimp Scampi Bake – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Cheesy Classic

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Bake

For the Shrimp Scampi

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
2–3 tbsp lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Baked Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Optional Sides

Cooked pasta
Steamed rice
Crusty bread for dipping

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional white wine. Stir and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, reducing slightly so the flavors concentrate. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.

4. Assemble the Bake

Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

5. Add the Cheesy Topping

In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle this evenly over the shrimp and sauce.

6. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

7. Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot. Pair with pasta, rice, or bread to soak up that irresistible sauce.

Tips & Variations

Add Veggies – Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make It Spicier – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat.
Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Cheese Swap – Try Gruyère or Fontina cheese for a different flavor twist.
Seafood Mix – Add scallops, crab, or lobster chunks for an extra-luxurious bake.

Storage

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F or on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep shrimp tender.
Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp and cream sauces don’t freeze well together.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4–6

Tools Used

9×13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Sharp knife & cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cheese grater

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and assemble everything in the baking dish a few hours ahead. Store in the fridge, then bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Bake is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The garlic-butter sauce, tangy lemon, and creamy topping make it an unforgettable meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Next time you’re craving something indulgent but easy, give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you—especially when they scrape the pan clean!

If you loved this dish, you might also enjoy pairing it with my Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe or serving it after a light starter like Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad.

And for more seafood inspiration, don’t miss Delish’s Shrimp Recipe Collection filled with creative ways to enjoy shrimp.

TINSUF RECIPES