Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake

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Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake is a decadent and easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Combining juicy shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender pasta baked to perfection under a golden, cheesy crust, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding your family, this one-pan meal will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake is loaded with flavor, combining the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory taste of garlic and shrimp. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The bake is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Stir in Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions
Pair this Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, makes an excellent accompaniment to this creamy dish.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace the shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables instead.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Cheese Blend: Mix in other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or asiago for a unique cheesy twist.

Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
2. What kind of pasta works best?
   Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine work wonderfully, but any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well will do.
3. Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
   Absolutely! For convenience, jarred Alfredo sauce can replace homemade. Just enhance it with fresh garlic and Parmesan for extra flavor.
4. Can I make this lighter?
   Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.