Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish with a touch of elegance.
Juicy shrimp tossed in a rich garlic-butter sauce, combined with tender pasta and baked
under a golden, cheesy topping—this recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks,
or when you want something indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 300 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for
2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside. -
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic.
Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream
and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. -
Combine:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Stir gently to coat
everything evenly. -
Bake:
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella
and Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake at 180°C (350°F)
for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. -
Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Description
This dish is creamy, garlicky, and loaded with tender shrimp in every bite.
The baked cheese topping adds a lightly crisp finish that contrasts beautifully
with the silky sauce and pasta underneath. It’s rich without being overwhelming
and feels both comforting and special.
Tips
- Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked, to keep them juicy.
- Do not overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes if you like a little heat.
- Try provolone or a cheese blend instead of mozzarella for extra flavor.
Correction (Common Mistakes to Avoid)
- Overcooking shrimp: This makes them rubbery; cook just until pink.
- Too thick sauce: Add a splash of pasta water or milk if needed.
- Dry bake: Ensure there is enough sauce so the pasta stays creamy.
Enjoy
Serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake hot, straight from the oven,
with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. It’s comforting,
flavorful, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Enjoy every creamy,
garlicky bite!
