This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy and cheesy delight that combines tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s baked to perfection for a cozy meal!
I love how easy it is to whip up and pop in the oven. Plus, who can resist all that gooey cheese? It’s the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week! 🍤❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using ziti or penne for this recipe since their shape holds the sauce well. If you don’t have these, try rotini or farfalle. Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp are perfect here! If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure they are thawed before cooking. You can substitute chicken or even veggies for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This is what gives your sauce that creamy richness. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but it may not be as rich. For a non-dairy choice, use coconut milk or a cashew cream for a similar consistency.
Cheese: Parmesan adds great flavor while mozzarella gives that gooey texture. If you’re out of Parmesan, feel free to swap in pecorino Romano. For a non-dairy option, look for cashew-based or almond-based cheese alternatives.
How Do You Make a Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without Lumps?
Getting a smooth Alfredo sauce is key to a great pasta bake. Here’s how to avoid lumps:
- Start by cooking the garlic with the butter over medium heat – be careful not to burn it.
- Add the flour gradually while whisking constantly. This creates a roux that helps thicken the sauce.
- When adding the heavy cream and milk, pour slowly while whisking vigorously. This prevents any lumps from forming.
- Cook the sauce gently until it thickens, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Keep stirring for a beautifully smooth sauce!
These steps will help you create a velvety base for your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake!
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz pasta (ziti or penne works well)
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake takes about 45 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for baking. A little bit of waiting, but totally worth it when you take a bite of that creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside for later.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Carefully sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to eliminate any raw flour taste.
5. Add Cream and Milk:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
6. Mix in Cheese and Seasonings:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing everything until smooth.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Next, gently combine the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated in that creamy goodness.
8. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish, then arrange half of the cooked shrimp over the top. Spread the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the shrimp.
9. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the entire surface. If you like, you can also add breadcrumbs and a bit of extra paprika on top for added crunch and color.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and you’re ready to dig in!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake—perfect for a hearty family dinner! 🍽️✨
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Do I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk alternative. Additionally, using less cheese or opting for reduced-fat cheese can help cut calories while still maintaining flavor.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the whole dish ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just heat it in the oven for a bit longer, about 30-35 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until heated through and bubbly.
What Should I Serve with Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a fantastic option to soak up that delicious Alfredo sauce.