Name: Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender penne pasta, and a bold garlic-infused cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a satisfying seafood meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta bake is the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Juicy shrimp and pasta are enveloped in a velvety garlic cream sauce, then topped with gooey, golden mozzarella. It’s a one-dish meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough for any night of the week. Great for make-ahead dinners and feeding a crowd, it’s a reliable go-to when you want something hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

penne pasta
shrimp, peeled and deveined
olive oil
garlic cloves, minced
diced tomatoes
heavy cream
milk
grated Parmesan cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
fresh parsley, chopped
salt and pepper
optional: red pepper flakes

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the diced tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with extra mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 520 kcal

Variations

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini before baking for added nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère, fontina, or white cheddar in place of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne and check that your cheeses are gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end when mixing the pasta with the sauce to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti also work great in this recipe.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is it okay to skip the tomatoes?

Yes, the tomatoes add brightness, but the dish is still delicious without them.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid overheating the dairy and stir constantly when melting the cheeses into the cream mixture.

Can I use a different protein?

Chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood can be used in place of shrimp.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—great for kids. Just skip the red pepper flakes if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or divide into two smaller ones. Adjust baking time as needed.

What sides go well with this dish?

Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent pairings.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish that combines rich flavor with simple preparation. Perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta smothered in a cheesy garlic sauce make this an ideal meal for entertaining, meal prepping, or a family dinner. Easy to adapt and even easier to enjoy, this dish is a must-try for pasta and seafood lovers alike.

Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake is a rich, creamy, and cheesy oven-baked dish that’s bursting with garlic flavor and succulent shrimp. Made with penne pasta, a velvety cream sauce, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s the ultimate comfort seafood meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add cream and milk. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine the cooked pasta and shrimp with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with extra mozzarella.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.