If you are craving a cozy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe will quickly become one of your absolute favorites. Combining tender shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy, garlicky cheese sauce, baked to bubbly perfection, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh seafood and a savory sauce that wraps every bite in warmth and flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises to bring smiles and satisfied appetites around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the succulent shrimp that add protein and a sweet briny taste, to the rich cheeses that create an irresistibly creamy sauce.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp bring a delicate seafood flavor and a tender bite.
- 1/2 pound pasta (any type): Choose your favorite pasta shape; it will soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté shrimp and aromatics, adding a smooth richness.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that signature garlic punch that brightens the dish.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 3 cups milk: The creamy base of the cheese sauce, perfectly melding all flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, melty cheesiness that enhances richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth for extra flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle, warming finish to the sauce.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—this ensures it won’t get mushy after baking. Drain and set aside, so it’s ready to blend with the rest of the creamy ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the shrimp
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook just until they turn pink and are cooked through, usually about 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooked shrimp will turn tough, so keep an eye on them! Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
Using the same skillet (so you keep all those flavorful bits), add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant—a vital step that pumps flavor into every spoonful of your pasta bake.
Step 4: Make the cheese sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly for one minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a roux base. Gradually whisk in the milk to keep the sauce smooth, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook until thickened, about five minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking or lumps.
Step 5: Add the cheeses and seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in your shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Let those cheeses melt fully into the sauce, creating a luscious, velvety coating that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Combine pasta, shrimp, and sauce
Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, gently folding everything together so that the cheesy sauce evenly embraces every piece. This step binds all the components into one harmonious dish.
Step 7: Bake to bubbly perfection
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden, signaling that your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe is ready to delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil over the top adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts with the creamy baked pasta. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This rich, hearty meal pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus tossed with a little olive oil and lemon zest for a refreshing sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins. You can also layer the pasta bake with sautéed spinach or sliced mushrooms before baking to add extra flavor and texture variations that wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to save time on a future busy night, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the sauce smooth and the shrimp tender.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain that delightful baked texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions gently covered to prevent drying out, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid watering down the sauce.
What type of pasta works best for Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold up well under the creamy sauce and baking process, but feel free to use what you love.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to enjoy a similar creamy experience without dairy.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers can be sautéed and added before baking for an extra nutritional boost and color.
How spicy is this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe?
This recipe is mild, focusing on garlic and cheese flavors. You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the aromatics if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a warm, cheesy pasta bake with tender shrimp and a garlicky kick. I truly hope you give this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe a try—it’s a dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with happy faces. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this is one recipe you’ll want on repeat.
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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake combining tender shrimp, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound pasta (any type)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is combined.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the cheese sauce; stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare to Bake: Pour the shrimp and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the dish is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven, serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake!
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
- For extra flavor, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce.
- If you want a crispier top, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
