Few dishes bring warmth and indulgence together like a creamy pasta bake. Add succulent shrimp, bubbling cheese, and fresh herbs, and you have a meal that speaks of cozy dinners with a touch of seaside luxury. This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Bake blends tender pasta, rich béchamel sauce, gooey cheese, and juicy shrimp for the ultimate comfort food. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a weekend family dinner, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
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12 oz (340g) penne or ziti pasta
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1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups (480ml) whole milk
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1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Preparation Steps:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 9–10 minutes (check package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add Cheese
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan until fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently fold to coat every piece with the creamy mixture. If the skillet isn’t large enough, combine everything in a mixing bowl.
6. Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the creamy pasta into a greased baking dish. Nestle the cooked shrimp on top evenly. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan.
7. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp on top. You can broil for an extra 1–2 minutes for more color, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve warm.
This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Bake brings together everything we love about comfort food—cheesy, rich, and full of flavor—with a delightful seafood twist. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve guests. The buttery shrimp add elegance, while the béchamel sauce and melted cheese ensure every bite is satisfying. Pair with a light salad or crusty bread, and enjoy your own taste of seaside comfort at home.