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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake is a comforting, flavor-packed meal with tender shrimp, garlic cream sauce, and melty cheese – perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated with the luscious garlic cream sauce.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create that delightful melty crust.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. For an extra golden crust, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
  • Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch recommended)
  • Mixing spoon
  • Tongs
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze the pasta bake before baking for up to 2 months for best texture.
  • When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy and moist.