Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake: A Gourmet Delight

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake, a dish that effortlessly combines succulent shrimp, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering, inviting everyone to savor its rich and comforting taste.

Ingredients

To create this delectable pasta bake, gather the following ingredients:

• #12 oz (340g) uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• #1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• #4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• #4 cloves garlic, minced
• #1 cup heavy cream
• #1 cup chicken broth
• #1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• #1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• #Salt and pepper to taste
• #1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• #Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

5. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
7. Add the Italian seasoning and bring to a simmer.
8. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, creamy sauce, and cherry tomatoes (if using). Mix until everything is well coated.
11. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

13. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
• Pasta Choice: While penne and rigatoni are ideal, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the pasta and sauce in advance, combine them, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, also complements the dish beautifully.

Photography Ideas

To capture the essence of your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake, consider taking photos from various angles. Highlight the creamy sauce, vibrant shrimp, and fresh herbs as garnishes. Natural lighting will enhance the dish’s colors, making it more inviting.

Experimenting in your kitchen is part of the joy of cooking. We encourage you to try this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake and share your results! If you love this recipe, explore our other articles for more culinary inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

Further Reading

For more ideas on pasta dishes, check out these related articles:

• Easy Weeknight Pasta Recipes
• How to Cook Perfect Shrimp Every Time
• The Best Garlic Bread Recipe for Your Pasta Night

By exploring these resources, you can deepen your culinary skills and discover new flavors to bring to your table. Enjoy your cooking journey!