Description
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta and Sauce:
12 oz penne pasta
4 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Pasta Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with cooked shrimp and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Pro Tip: Pair this dish with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete, indulgent meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in well-salted water until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry to ensure a good sear. After cooking the shrimp, use the same skillet for the sauce to capture all the flavorful bits. When making the Alfredo sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating. Combine the pasta and sauce in a large bowl before transferring to the baking dish for even coating.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the indulgence. Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a vegetable side, try roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish wonderfully.
How-to Summary
To summarize, this dish involves four key stages: 1) Season and pan-sear the shrimp. 2) Cook the pasta until al dente. 3) Create a creamy Alfredo sauce in the same skillet used for the shrimp. 4) Combine everything in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until golden and bubbly. The entire process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, fully thaw and pat dry frozen shrimp before seasoning to avoid excess water.
What pasta can I substitute for penne? Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent alternatives that hold sauce well.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk and use a light sprinkle of cheese, though the sauce will be less rich.
Can I prepare this bake ahead of time? Assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp initially, which will make them rubbery after baking.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Boiling the cream sauce, which can cause it to curdle or separate.
- Fully cooking the pasta before baking, leading to a mushy final texture.
- Not seasoning the pasta water adequately, which is a key opportunity to build flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining succulent shrimp with a decadent, cheesy sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s perfect for a special weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. The versatility of the recipe allows for easy customization, and the make-ahead potential makes it a practical choice for busy schedules. Enjoy the delicious, comforting results of this classic combination.