Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shrimp Pasta Bake brings together the best of pasta and seafood in a simple, one-pan meal. The rich, creamy sauce complements the tender shrimp, while the gooey cheese topping provides a satisfying contrast in texture. The addition of garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes makes this dish flavorful without being overwhelming. It’s easy to customize with optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or artichokes, and it bakes up to golden perfection. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a dish that’s a little more special, this pasta bake delivers.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes (halved, for added sweetness)
- Baby spinach (for extra greens)
- Canned artichoke hearts (chopped, for a Mediterranean twist)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but stop 1-2 minutes before it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine the pasta, shrimp, and sauce: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
Total time: 40 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian version: Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian pasta bake.
- Spicy variation: For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- Pesto variation: Add a tablespoon or two of pesto to the sauce for extra flavor and richness.
- Seafood medley: Add scallops or crab meat to the dish for a more decadent seafood bake.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover Shrimp Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
For longer storage, freeze the pasta bake in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and cook as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if needed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, and linguine are all great options, but feel free to swap for other pasta shapes like rigatoni or macaroni.
Can I add other vegetables to the bake?
Yes! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These can be sautéed along with the garlic before adding the sauce or mixed in with the pasta.
Can I make this pasta bake without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
How do I make sure the pasta doesn’t get overcooked in the oven?
To prevent overcooking, make sure to cook the pasta to al dente before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, bake it just until the cheese is melted and bubbly to avoid drying it out.
Can I make this recipe without shrimp?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken, sausage, or just add more vegetables for a meatless version.
How can I make the pasta bake spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze the shrimp pasta bake?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta bake before baking it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with succulent shrimp in a rich and flavorful sauce. With simple ingredients and the ability to customize with your favorite add-ins, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or dish for a gathering. Enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of creamy pasta, succulent shrimp, and gooey cheese, making it a comforting and delicious meal. The garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes add vibrant flavors, while the mozzarella and Parmesan create a rich topping. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta bake is easy to customize with optional vegetables or even a seafood medley. Whether you’re serving it for family or guests, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes (halved, for added sweetness)
- Baby spinach (for extra greens)
- Canned artichoke hearts (chopped, for a Mediterranean twist)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
-
Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stopping 1-2 minutes before it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
-
Combine the pasta, shrimp, and sauce: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.
-
Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
-
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
-
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Customize with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the shrimp and add more vegetables.
- Swap the heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
