This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and baked pasta for a comforting dish. It’s cheesy, warm, and perfect for any dinner!
I love how this bake is an easy way to impress friends without breaking a sweat. Just mix, bake, and serve! Plus, who can resist that bubbly, cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, but any short pasta works well. Penne and fusilli are great options too! If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free pasta for a tasty alternative.
Shrimp: Large shrimp brings the best flavor, but you can substitute with smaller shrimp or even cooked crab meat if you prefer. Tofu is an excellent choice for a vegetarian version!
Alfredo Sauce: While store-bought is convenient, making your own is simpler than you think and adds a personal touch! You can use a lighter cream or even a plant-based alternative for dairy-free options.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan brings a salty flavor. If you’re looking to cut calories, use low-fat cheese, or nutritional yeast is a wonderful dairy-free substitute.
Panko Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work just fine. You can also skip it for a lighter meal or top with crushed crackers for an extra crunch.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but timing is crucial! Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp:
- Start with a hot skillet over medium heat. This helps the shrimp cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as they get rubbery!
- Season lightly with salt and pepper while cooking to enhance flavor.
Remember, shrimp continue to cook from residual heat even after removing from the pan, so slightly undercooking at this stage is okay!
Delicious Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need about 40 minutes, and then it’s all ready for you to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your pasta bake cooks evenly and turns golden brown.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (or firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and Alfredo sauce. Stir gently until the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray. Then, pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mix. This will create a delicious cheesy layer!
7. Add Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil or melted butter until they are lightly coated. Then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer to get a nice crispy topping.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in the fridge overnight or by submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes in a sealed bag.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake up to a day in advance! Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Substitute the Alfredo Sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use a creamy mushroom sauce or even a homemade béchamel. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free Alfredo sauce available in stores!
