Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake

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Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience that’s both incredibly satisfying and deceptively easy to whip up. Imagine tender pasta, succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection with a cheesy topping. This Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake is a dish that screams cozy nights in, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to something truly special. It’s hearty, flavorful, and destined to become a new family favorite!

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work great)
  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Now, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add half of the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Do not overcook. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream (if using), bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked shrimp, and the garlic butter sauce. Stir gently to ensure everything is well coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

  • Add Some Veggies: Feel free to toss in some fresh spinach, diced bell peppers, or halved cherry tomatoes along with the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
  • Make it Creamier: For an even richer sauce, increase the heavy cream to 1 cup. You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce for extra tang.
  • Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, don't shy away from adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses! Provolone, white cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious on top.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time (steps 1-6) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

This Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a baking dish. The irresistible combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, all crowned with gooey melted cheese, makes for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Give this recipe a try tonight, and prepare to fall in love! Don't forget to squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over your serving for a burst of brightness. Enjoy!

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