This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With tender pasta and juicy shrimp smothered in rich Alfredo sauce, it’s a dish everyone will love.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! I just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and wait for that bubbly, golden top. Perfect for cozy nights in! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love rotini for its ability to hold the sauce well. You can also swap it for any short pasta like penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but don’t hesitate to use frozen. Just thaw them before cooking! If you prefer, chicken or even Italian sausage could work as tasty substitutes.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream. You’ll still get a nice creamy texture.
Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for its flavor. If you want a stronger taste, try substituting Pecorino Romano. For the cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier option, though it may alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Getting a creamy sauce can seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! Here are some helpful tips:
- Start by sautéing minced garlic until it’s fragrant before adding the cream mixture. This enhances the flavor.
- Warming the heavy cream and milk before adding the cream cheese helps it melt smoothly. No one likes lumps!
- Add the cheeses gradually, letting them melt fully into the sauce before adding the next. Patience is key here!
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. It can make a world of difference in flavor!
Delicious Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Shrimp:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful shrimp Alfredo pasta bake will take about 15 minutes for preparation, followed by 20-25 minutes in the oven. All in all, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 40-45 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking—this makes serving so much easier!
2. Cook The Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions but reduce the time by 1-2 minutes to keep it al denté (a little firm). Drain the pasta and put it aside.
3. Cook The Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and half of the paprika. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Make The Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat and incorporate the heavy cream, milk, and softened cream cheese. Stir everything together until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add Cheeses and Seasoning:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and remaining paprika to the skillet. Stir everything until the sauce slightly thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Now, toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the Alfredo sauce, making sure everything is thoroughly coated with that delicious, creamy goodness.
7. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top for that gooey, cheesy finish!
8. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Garnish & Serve:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish your delectable shrimp Alfredo pasta bake with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake is a true comfort food delight, bringing creamy, cheesy flavors together with tender shrimp and pasta. Your family will be asking for seconds!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk and use a dairy-free cream cheese. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the components ahead of time! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread is also a great addition for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce!
