Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake

If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich, mellow flavors of roasted garlic with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked penne pasta, then this Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. Picture tender shrimp infused with roasted garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, vibrant spinach, and a cheesy, bubbly crust that will make every bite irresistible. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together bold flavors and easy prep for a memorable meal.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake has quickly become a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike for several reasons. First, roasting a whole head of garlic mellows its sharpness and adds a sweet, caramelized depth that transforms the entire dish. Next, the shrimp cooks quickly and stays juicy, making it a perfect protein for a pasta bake without the risk of overcooking. The combination of fresh spinach and bright cherry tomatoes adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheeses.

Additionally, the use of both mozzarella and Parmesan creates a luscious, melty topping with a golden-brown finish that’s simply irresistible. The slight kick from red pepper flakes adds just enough heat to keep things interesting without overpowering the delicate shrimp. Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile and easy to customize, making it a reliable go-to for those who love fuss-free, flavorful meals. If you’re a fan of seafood pasta, you might also want to check out the Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine for another delicious twist.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 12 oz penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the cheesy sauce and bits of roasted garlic.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen, shrimp brings a tender, juicy protein element.
• 1 head garlic, roasted – Roasting garlic transforms it into a sweet, buttery, spreadable treasure.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a burst of juiciness and a touch of acidity.
• 1 cup spinach leaves – Provides color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – For creamy, melty goodness.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and a crispy topping when baked.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – For roasting garlic and sautéing shrimp.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle heat that complements the garlic and shrimp.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh basil, for garnish – Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Equipment & Tools

• Baking sheet – For roasting the garlic head.
• Large pot – To boil the penne pasta.
• Large skillet – For sautéing shrimp and mixing ingredients.
• Baking dish – To assemble and bake the penne.
• Mixing spoon – For combining all ingredients evenly.
• Cheese grater – To grate fresh Parmesan.
• Aluminum foil – Optional, for covering the baking dish to prevent over-browning.

Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake: How It’s Done

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast for about 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized. Once cool, squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add the roasted garlic cloves and mash them slightly to release flavor. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Toss in the spinach leaves and cook until just wilted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together gently. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta, shrimp, and vegetable mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.

Make It Year-Round

• Use frozen shrimp when fresh isn’t available—they thaw quickly and still taste great.
• Swap cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor in winter.
• Incorporate other greens like kale or arugula if spinach is out of season.
• Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery and lose their delicate texture.
• Ensure the penne is cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
• Avoid skipping the roasting of garlic—raw garlic would overpower the dish.
• Be cautious with salt, especially if your cheeses are salty; taste as you go.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use other types of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal because it holds sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit cheese entirely. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top before baking can add a cheesy flavor.

How do I roast garlic without an oven?

If you don’t have an oven, you can roast garlic on a stovetop using a small pan over low heat. Cover and cook slowly until the cloves become soft and golden, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I add cream or a sauce to make this more saucy?

Definitely! For a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or a béchamel sauce before baking. For a spicy twist, try this technique with the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine – A vibrant, herbaceous pasta perfect for pesto lovers.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta – A spicy, indulgent pasta dish with rich Alfredo sauce and a Cajun kick.

Final Thoughts

The Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Bake is one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly. The layers of flavor—from the sweet roasted garlic to the tender shrimp and fresh vegetables—make it a dish that satisfies on every level. Its adaptability means you can tweak it to suit your pantry and preferences without losing that comforting, cheesy goodness that makes a pasta bake so irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick meal that feels special, this recipe is a stellar choice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil to brighten the dish and enjoy every bite.

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