Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake

A Rich and Flavorful Comfort Dish

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all baked together with a generous layer of cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor – The garlic butter sauce infuses the shrimp and pasta with incredible taste.
• Comforting & Satisfying – A cheesy, creamy texture makes this dish pure comfort food.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for serving family and friends.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
• Add shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter.
• Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine & Assemble

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce.
• Fold in cherry tomatoes (if using).

5. Bake the Pasta

• Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
• Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Garnish & Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
• Enjoy warm!

Possible Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Creamy – Stir in ½ cup of ricotta or cream cheese.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Different Protein – Try using scallops, chicken, or crab instead of shrimp.
• Herb Boost – Mix in fresh basil or oregano for extra depth.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side, as they continue cooking in the oven.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw them in cold water for 20 minutes and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great choices since they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pasta bake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk.

What cheese works best for this dish?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also use gouda, fontina, or provolone.

How do I add more vegetables?

Mix in spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with garlic butter shrimp pasta.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end before baking to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and a golden baked topping, it’s a true comfort food favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!

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