Creamy Shrimp Scampi Bake
Looking for a quick and easy shrimp dinner packed with bold flavors? This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Bake is the perfect combination of garlic butter shrimp, zesty lemon, and a cheesy golden topping. Ready in under 30 minutes, this baked shrimp recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Bake
Bursting With Flavor – A rich garlic-butter and lemon sauce coats every shrimp.
Creamy & Cheesy – A luscious blend of cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan melts beautifully.
Quick Weeknight Meal – Done in less than 30 minutes!
Perfect for Pasta or Rice – Serve it over noodles, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Crowd-Friendly Dish – This baked shrimp recipe always wows at potlucks, gatherings, or holiday meals.
Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Scampi Bake
Serves 4–6
Shrimp Scampi Base
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup dry white wine (or more chicken broth)
Salt & pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheesy Baked Topping
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
Optional Serving Ideas
Linguine, angel hair pasta, rice, or toasted crusty bread
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Scampi Bake
Step 1 – Preheat
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2 – Sauté the Shrimp
Warm the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side—just until pink. Remove from skillet.
Step 3 – Make the Creamy Scampi Sauce
In the same pan, add:
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Lemon juice + lemon zest
White wine (optional)
Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4 – Combine & Assemble
Toss the cooked shrimp in the sauce.
Transfer everything to your baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5 – Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 6 – Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with bread to soak up the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Why This Shrimp Scampi Bake Works
Garlic Butter Perfection – Classic scampi flavor with a creamy twist.
Balanced Sauce – Chicken broth keeps it light, cream adds richness.
Cheesy Finish – Melted mozzarella + Parmesan = irresistible golden top.
Easy Variations
Veggie Boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted peppers.
Extra Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice.
Seafood Mix: Try scallops, crab meat, or cod chunks.
Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or steamed broccoli.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
Do NOT overcook the shrimp—they turn rubbery fast.
Use fresh lemon for the brightest flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 2 days and reheat gently.
