If you’re craving a dish that brings together the comforting charm of baked pasta with the succulent flavors of seafood, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully garlicky, this meal turns simple ingredients into a heartwarming feast that gets better with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe promises a delightful combination of tender shrimp, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the fresh shrimp adding a touch of the sea to the cheeses bringing savory creaminess, these straightforward ingredients come together to create magic.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp provide the star protein, offering a sweet and tender bite.
- 1/2 pound pasta (any type): Choose your favorite shape—penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni all work wonderfully for capturing the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds the perfect base for cooking shrimp and veggies while contributing subtle fruitiness.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the garlic’s punch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: The essential flavor booster that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that luscious texture.
- 3 cups milk: Creates a creamy sauce base that envelops every ingredient.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty richness to the bake.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty complexity that elevates the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the dish’s flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and aromatics.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Shrimp
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the perfect temperature for baking later. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside—this will be the comforting base that holds all the wonderful sauce. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and quickly sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque; this quick cook keeps them juicy and tender. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to make room for the sauce preparation.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet keeps all those shrimp-flavored oils in play. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking gently until the onion is soft and translucent while the garlic becomes fragrant. This sauté not only builds flavor but also ensures that each layer of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe is beautifully balanced.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and cook it for about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps—this step is key for a smooth, thick sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer until it thickens into a rich base. Now it’s time to stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese with salt and pepper; this melty, cheesy mixture is what turns simple pasta into a decadent bake.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Return the shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet, folding them gently into the cheesy sauce so every piece gets coated. Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The result? A bubbly, golden-topped delight with a velvety sauce that will make everyone at the table smile.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma, which beautifully contrasts the creamy richness. A light squeeze of lemon just before serving adds a refreshing brightness that complements the garlicky shrimp perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, adding a fresh crunch to the meal. For something heartier, roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make great sides that enhance both nutrition and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized touch—perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. Alternatively, consider topping the bake with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking to add a delightful golden crunch layer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe to airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This bake freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Use freezer-friendly containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring you press out excess air. When frozen properly, the dish can keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For the best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps maintain that fresh-from-the-oven quality. Alternatively, microwave reheating works for quicker meals but may slightly soften the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the sauce’s consistency.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Any pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni, is ideal. Feel free to use your favorite type or whatever you have on hand.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or vegan?
You can swap the cheeses for plant-based alternatives and use a suitable milk substitute to create a dairy-free version. For vegan, replace the shrimp with your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein.
Is it possible to add more vegetables to this bake?
Certainly! Adding veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers will brighten the dish and add more nutrition without compromising flavor.
How spicy is this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe?
This recipe leans toward savory and creamy rather than spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Next time you want a cozy dinner that impresses without the fuss, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal.
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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake is a comforting and savory dish featuring tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to bubbly perfection. Combining fresh garlic, sautéed onions, and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, this meal is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, delivering rich flavor and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound pasta (any type)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 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 the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to combine with the sauce later.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, creating the flavor base for the sauce.
- Make the roux: Stir in the flour with the onions and garlic, cooking for 1 minute while constantly stirring to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Add milk and thicken: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate cheese and season: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and flavorful.
- Combine pasta and shrimp with sauce: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat everything evenly with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the pasta, shrimp, and sauce 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, let cool slightly, then serve hot and enjoy this comforting garlic shrimp pasta bake.
Notes
- You can use any type of pasta such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni based on preference.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some milk with heavy cream or add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp during the initial sautéing, as it will continue cooking during baking.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and texture.
