Looking for a satisfying dinner that combines hearty pasta with a touch of seafood elegance? This baked ziti with shrimp recipe delivers on both comfort and flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal, weekend gatherings, or even special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

Why Baked Ziti with Shrimp is a Must-Try

This dish offers the perfect combination of:

Creamy, cheesy layers that melt in your mouth.
Protein-packed, juicy shrimp that cooks in minutes.
The ability to customize with different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.

For other comforting pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this easy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls for another creamy and satisfying twist.

Shrimp is the star here, and if you love seafood-inspired dishes, don’t miss this recipe for Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet, which balances rich flavors beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta and Shrimp

Ziti pasta (penne works as a substitute)
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Garlic: Fresh minced for flavor
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes

For the Sauce

Marinara sauce: Store-bought or homemade
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

For the Cheesy Layers

Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese: Shredded for that perfect melt
Parmesan cheese: Sharp and flavorful

If you love experimenting with cheese combinations, try this guide on the best cheeses for pasta bakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil ziti pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet and add minced garlic.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in marinara sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to enhance the flavor.

4. Assemble the Ziti

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a baking dish, layer as follows:
- A portion of the cooked ziti and marinara sauce.
- A layer of sautéed shrimp.
- Dollops of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
Repeat layers and finish with a generous topping of Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

For a lighter shrimp option, try these delicious Baked Shrimp and Chive Rice Paper Dumplings as a side or appetizer.

Nutritional Benefits of Baked Ziti with Shrimp

High Protein: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Cheesy Goodness: Ricotta and mozzarella provide calcium and healthy fats.
Balanced Meal: Carbs from pasta, protein from shrimp, and nutrients from tomato sauce make it a complete dish.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti with Shrimp

Don’t overcook the shrimp: It cooks quickly and can become rubbery.
Use fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor.
Let the ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to set the layers.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw the shrimp completely and pat it dry before cooking.

How do I make this dish ahead of time?
Assemble the ziti, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

What sides pair well with baked ziti?
Garlic bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Can I make a creamy version of this ziti?
Absolutely! Replace the marinara with Alfredo sauce or add a splash of heavy cream.

Final Thoughts

This baked ziti with shrimp is a showstopper that combines cheesy comfort with the light and savory taste of shrimp. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort.

For more seafood-inspired pasta dishes, explore other favorites like this Seafood Mac and Cheese that’s perfect for indulgent cravings.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a new family favorite that’s sure to impress! 🍤🍝

Baked Ziti with Shrimp: A Comforting Seafood Pasta Bake

Author: kynall

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious baked ziti with shrimp combines creamy cheese, tender pasta, and juicy shrimp. Perfect for seafood lovers and a cozy family dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz. Ziti noodles (cooked to your liking)
½ cup Hot water
8 oz. Cream cheese (softened)
12 oz. Jar roasted red peppers (drained and chopped)
1 tbsp Olive oil
8 oz. Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cut into pieces)
8 oz. Bay scallops
⅛ tsp Salt
4 tsp Minced garlic
1 tbsp Chopped fresh parsley
¾ cup Shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a blender or food processor, pulse together hot water, cream cheese, and roasted red peppers until a smooth sauce forms.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp, scallops, garlic, and salt to the skillet. Sauté until the shrimp and scallops are cooked through. Drain any excess liquid.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the prepared sauce to the skillet with the shrimp mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the cooked ziti noodles and parsley, tossing to combine well.
Transfer the mixture to a well-greased 9×9 baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage:

Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Enjoy this comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for a busy day! 😊