Close your eyes and picture the ocean breeze, the sound of waves, and a plate of rich, garlicky shrimp pasta fresh from the oven. That’s exactly what the Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake delivers. This dish takes the freshness of shrimp, the creaminess of pasta, and the coziness of melted cheese and brings them together in one perfect bite.
It’s a recipe that feels indulgent, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The blend of butter, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a balance of richness and brightness that will remind you of a seaside vacation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta bake will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Shrimp Pasta Bake
This recipe serves 4–6 people. Gather the following ingredients before you begin:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pasta bake will come out bubbly and golden on top.
Cook the Pasta
Boil the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. The pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven, so avoid overcooking.
Sauté Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes, until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Build the Sauce
Deglaze the skillet with white wine (or chicken broth). Let it simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up the flavor-packed bits from the pan. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat every strand with the creamy lemon-garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Bake
Transfer the pasta into a greased baking dish. Place the cooked shrimp evenly across the top. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan and mozzarella for a gooey, golden crust.
Bake
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly browned around the edges.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Delicious Variations
Lighter Option
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Protein Swap
Replace shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a different twist.
Add a Crunch
Top the dish with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and Parmesan before baking for a golden, crispy topping.
Extra Veggies
Mix in spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrients and color.
Adjust the Heat
Add more red pepper flakes for spice lovers, or omit them for a mild flavor.
Why This Dish Works
The Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake is a harmony of flavors and textures:
- Buttery richness from the sauce
- Fresh zestiness from lemon
- Creamy indulgence from Parmesan and mozzarella
- Subtle heat from red pepper flakes
- Succulent shrimp that taste as if they came straight from the ocean
This balance makes it a dish you’ll crave again and again.
Serving Suggestions
- With Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness.
- With Bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette soaks up the sauce.
- With Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
- For Entertaining: Serve in small ramekins for individual portions at dinner parties.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings for 1–2 minutes, though texture may soften.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating on low heat.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta Bake
- Use fresh shrimp when possible. It gives the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook shrimp. They only need a few minutes to turn pink.
- Cook pasta al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Balance flavors. Adjust lemon juice and salt to taste for a fresh, bright finish.
- Make it ahead. Assemble in the morning, refrigerate, then bake at dinner time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking.
2. What pasta shape works best?
Linguine and spaghetti are traditional, but penne or rigatoni also work well.
3. Can I make it without wine?
Absolutely. Use chicken or vegetable broth as a substitute.
4. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, chili oil, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
5. Can this dish be prepped in advance?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
6. What cheeses work besides mozzarella?
Fontina, provolone, or Gruyère can all be used for different flavors.
Conclusion
The Seaside Comfort Shrimp Pasta Bake is more than a recipe—it’s a little piece of coastal happiness baked into every bite. Creamy, garlicky, buttery, and just a touch zesty, it’s a dish that works for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Whether you enjoy it with a crisp salad, warm bread, or simply on its own, this pasta bake will transport you straight to the seaside without leaving your kitchen.